BATON ROUGE, La. — A violent afternoon shooting claimed one life and left another person fighting for survival Sunday in Baton Rouge’s Monroe Avenue neighborhood. The Baton Rouge Police Department confirmed the double shooting occurred near the intersection of Monroe and Adams avenues around 4:30 p.m.
Authorities identified the deceased victim as 22-year-old Jalen Lee, a local resident who sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel pronounced Lee dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts. A second male victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
Investigators from the BRPD Homicide Division combed through the crime scene Sunday evening, collecting shell casings and other forensic evidence. Police have not released any information about potential suspects or a possible motive for the shooting. Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots but didn’t witness the actual confrontation.
This latest incident adds to Baton Rouge’s growing tally of gun violence cases this year. Community activists have expressed increasing frustration over the persistent bloodshed in the capital city. “We’re losing too many young lives to senseless violence,” said local pastor Michael Johnson, who ministers in the affected neighborhood.
The shooting occurred in a residential area just blocks from several schools and community centers. Police have increased patrols in the vicinity while detectives pursue leads. Investigators are reviewing nearby surveillance footage that may provide clues about the perpetrators.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the shooting to contact Baton Rouge Police at (225) 389-4869 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-7867. A reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest in the case.
