LAFAYETTE, La. — A deadly shooting late Thursday night has left a Lafayette neighborhood in shock after a 24-year-old man was killed in the 800 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The Lafayette Police Department identified the victim as Joseph Bargeman Jr., a local resident.
Officers responded to a report of gunfire at approximately 11:25 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Bargeman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. Authorities have not yet released any details regarding what led to the shooting or whether any suspects have been identified.
The crime scene was taped off for several hours as investigators combed the area for evidence and spoke with potential witnesses. Detectives continue to work to determine a motive and whether the shooting was targeted or random. At this time, no arrests have been made, and police have not commented on whether additional individuals were involved or injured.
Police are urging members of the public to come forward with any information that might help with the investigation. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Lafayette Crime Stoppers at 232-TIPS or via the Lafayette Police Department’s mobile app, which allows for discreet reporting. Investigators emphasized that even minor details could be crucial in solving the case.
The shooting has deeply affected the surrounding community, where neighbors reported hearing gunshots late into the night. Some residents described seeing emergency lights and officers canvassing the area in the aftermath. Many in the MLK Jr. Drive neighborhood noted that such violence is uncommon and expressed sorrow over the loss.
Bargeman’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, with friends and acquaintances remembering him as a young man full of promise. While his family has not yet issued a public statement, police confirmed that they were notified before releasing his identity to the public.
As the investigation remains ongoing, city officials and community leaders are once again calling for unity and proactive efforts to reduce gun violence. Lafayette police have vowed to pursue every lead in hopes of delivering justice to Bargeman’s family and restoring a sense of safety to the community.