The Baton Rouge Police Major Assaults Detectives have made a significant breakthrough in the case involving the shooting incident on Lafayette St, with the arrest of Latoria Matthews, aged 23. Matthews stands accused of shooting a 24-year-old male victim on April 7, 2024, at approximately 7:45 pm, within the vicinity of the 526 Lafayette St, LaSalle parking garage.
According to the details provided by the authorities, Matthews allegedly lured the victim into her vehicle after connecting with him through the social media platform, Instagram. Subsequently, they proceeded to the LaSalle parking garage with the intention of engaging in consensual sexual activity. However, the encounter took a harrowing turn when Matthews purportedly opened fire on the victim multiple times as he prepared to engage in intimacy.
Despite sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, the victim displayed remarkable resilience and managed to escape from the vehicle, seeking aid and medical attention promptly. Emergency services swiftly transported him to a local hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries, described as non-life threatening.
Following the shooting, Matthews fled the scene, evading law enforcement authorities. However, her flight from justice was short-lived, as she was eventually apprehended in Houston, Texas, and subsequently extradited back to Baton Rouge to face the consequences of her actions.
Upon her return, Matthews was promptly booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder and Illegal Use of a Weapon. These charges underscore the severity of her alleged actions and the gravity of the harm inflicted upon the victim.
The arrest of Latoria Matthews marks a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation into this disturbing incident. It serves as a testament to the dedication and diligence of law enforcement personnel in pursuing justice for victims of violent crime and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community is reminded of the importance of remaining vigilant and cooperative with law enforcement authorities in efforts to combat crime and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. The swift apprehension of Matthews sends a clear message that acts of violence will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
The Baton Rouge Police Department extends its gratitude to all individuals who assisted in the apprehension of the suspect and encourages anyone with further information relevant to the case to come forward and aid in the pursuit of justice.
