Lake Charles, LA – A tragic shooting late Sunday night resulted in the death of an 18-year-old Lake Charles man and led to a vehicle crash near the McNeese Legacy Center. Authorities have since arrested a suspect in connection with the incident.
According to the Lake Charles Police Department (LCPD), officers responded to reports of a shooting and crash on McNeese Street at approximately 10:58 p.m. on Sunday, March 9. Upon arrival, officers found a wrecked vehicle and its driver, identified as 18-year-old Daniel Hernandez, suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but Hernandez succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Following an initial investigation, authorities identified 19-year-old Keith Demetrius Syas, of Lake Charles, as the suspect in the shooting. He was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Police have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the shooting or whether the suspect and victim knew each other.
Detectives are actively working to determine the exact location of the shooting and the events leading up to the incident. Investigators believe Hernandez was shot before his vehicle crashed, but details about what transpired before the shooting remain unclear. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses to piece together the sequence of events.
The incident has left the Lake Charles community shocked and mourning the loss of a young life. Family and friends of Hernandez are seeking justice as law enforcement officials continue their investigation. The arrest of Syas marks a major development in the case, but authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Anyone with knowledge of the incident is encouraged to contact Sgt. Kevin Hoover, the lead investigator, at (337) 491-1311. Updates on the case may be provided as the investigation continues.
