Shreveport man convicted of second-degree murder in 2023 shooting death

A Shreveport man was found guilty of second-degree murder on April 30, 2026, in Caddo District Court in connection with the 2023 shooting death of Bre’Anna Hall.

A jury deliberated for less than 50 minutes before convicting Steven Darnell Davis, 49, in the August 4, 2023 incident. He was also found guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to case details, Davis had reported his vehicle and a minibike stolen earlier that day and made statements indicating he intended to harm the person responsible. Later that evening, Davis encountered 15-year-old Jeremy Mayo, who was riding the minibike, and confronted him at an intersection.

Authorities said Mayo surrendered the minibike and fled when Davis began firing a handgun. Hall, who had been following her brother in a separate vehicle, exited in an apparent attempt to intervene when Davis opened fire, striking her multiple times. She later died from her injuries.

Investigators identified Davis as a suspect, and witnesses at the scene confirmed his involvement. Testimony during the trial included accounts from individuals present that night, as well as recorded calls presented as evidence.

Davis is scheduled to return to court on May 21, 2026, where he faces a mandatory life sentence for the murder conviction. He also faces additional penalties related to the firearm charge.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Treneisha Hill and Ross Owen, with Davis represented by the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s Office.


Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office awarded grant to support litter prevention efforts

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office has been awarded the 2025–2026 Keep Louisiana Beautiful Trash Receptacle Grant, aimed at reducing litter in communities across the parish.

The grant provides up to five trash receptacles for placement in outdoor public spaces. As part of the initiative, the Caddo Parish Commission accepted three of the awarded receptacles, which have been installed in high-traffic areas near the entrances of the Caddo Parish Courthouse and the Caddo Parish Juvenile Court.

Officials said the program is designed not only to reduce littering but also to measure the effectiveness of receptacle placement and increase public awareness through litter prevention signage.

Keep Louisiana Beautiful, a statewide program under the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, leads efforts to promote cleaner communities through education, prevention, enforcement and sustainability initiatives.

The grant is funded by the State of Louisiana and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and supports local governments, agencies and organizations in addressing litter and improving community environments.


Caddo Parish highlights domestic violence efforts, reports major court activity in April

April brought continued focus on domestic violence prevention and a series of significant court developments in Caddo Parish, according to District Attorney James E. Stewart Sr.

A new Domestic Violence Center opened at 1501 Corporate Drive under the leadership of Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn. The center is working alongside the District Attorneys of Northwest Louisiana Family Justice Center and Project Celebration to expand access to services for victims, including protective orders, housing assistance and other support.

Officials also acknowledged the impact of recent gun violence, noting multiple child fatalities in Shreveport and across the state, as well as the death of a 17-year-old visiting Baton Rouge. The statement expressed condolences to the families affected.

Throughout April, the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, First Judicial District Court and Juvenile Court handled numerous cases.

A Caddo Parish grand jury indicted Anthony Earl Edwards, 58, of Shreveport, on a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the June 28, 2025 death of Rosalind Sims, 70. Authorities said Sims was struck and killed by her own vehicle, allegedly driven by Edwards.

In court proceedings, Brandon Lawyne Batiste, 32, was found guilty of second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder and illegal possession of a firearm in connection with a 2023 shooting near a downtown nightclub that resulted in the death of John Ruffin Jr. He faces a mandatory life sentence, with additional penalties pending sentencing scheduled for May 27.

Michael Hollister, 45, of Bossier City, was convicted of misdemeanor domestic abuse battery following a bench trial. He was sentenced to a $300 fine, court costs, six months in jail with all but 48 hours suspended and one year of supervised probation.

Amanvir Singh, 36, was sentenced to life in prison for the 2024 shooting death of Gurpreet Judge following a dispute tied to social media posts.

Darrtavious Tuvoya Lewis, 22, pleaded guilty to aggravated flight from an officer after leading police on a high-speed chase in April 2025. Sentencing is set for June 16.

Frederick Dewayne McKinley, 32, was convicted of attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces up to seven and a half years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for May 20.

Monolo Anton Baker, 47, was found guilty of possessing a stolen firearm and possession of a weapon with an obliterated serial number.

Kendrell Quinte Thomas, 24, was sentenced as a habitual offender to life in prison for home invasion and cruelty to persons with infirmities involving a 91-year-old victim. He also received a concurrent 30-year sentence.

Dewayne Ray Jackson, 61, pleaded guilty to sexual battery involving a child under 13 and faces a sentence ranging from 25 to 99 years, with sentencing set for June 29.

Jace Greenslate, 19, of DeBerry, Texas, was sentenced to five years in parish jail, with four years suspended, for negligent homicide in connection with a 2023 Mardi Gras shooting.

Willie Thomas Bryant, 69, was sentenced to a total of 50 years in prison for sexual battery and indecent behavior involving a juvenile under 13.

Victrick Frazier Johnson, 36, pleaded guilty to two counts of molestation of a juvenile under 13 and was sentenced to two concurrent 40-year prison terms.

The district attorney’s office said it remains committed to addressing violent crime, supporting victims and prosecuting offenders, particularly in cases involving children and domestic violence.


Remembering Holly Kay Garrett

Holly Kay Garrett, 58, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. Saved by Grace, she now rejoices in eternal peace with the Lord.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 4th, at Osborn Funeral Home. A private graveside service will be held Tuesday, May 5th, at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Cove, Arkansas.
Holly was preceded in death by her parents, Kay Scott Garrett and Chester “Chuck” Garrett; maternal grandparents, Harley and Clarice Scott; paternal grandparents, Roy and Helen “Germa” Shirley Garrett; aunt, Ella Dee Garrett.

She is survived by her stepmother, Ann Garrett; stepbrother; Joe Liles and wife Crystal and their children. She is also survived by extended family, including relatives on both the Scott and Garrett sides.

Holly was a lifelong resident of Shreveport and a proud graduate of First Baptist Church School, Class of 1986. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

Holly was very involved in her community. She treasured friendships made over the years serving in various community placements as a member of the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier. It is through her volunteer work with the Junior League that she came to love the Red River Revel. She served the Revel as a board member and a leader of the artist hospitality team reflecting her love for people and the arts for over fifteen years. Holly was also a member of Phi Mu Sorority and The Cotillion Club.

She began her career at Morgan Keegan and then spent the last 25 years at Sid Potts, Inc.

Professionally, Holly was a certified Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP) through the Gemological Institute of America. She wore many hats throughout her career-buyer, marketer, and merchandiser-and was known as a true “all-around pro.” She was respected by peers across the industry, with connections spanning Italy, Germany, France, New York, and Los Angeles.

Holly had a true zest for life and was known for her quick wit and dry humor. She loved to travel, attended concerts, movies and never missed a good reality TV show. Holly also loved the Arkansas Razorbacks. She enjoyed evenings with friends playing Bunco in years past, but most recently Mahjong. She had a gift for connection, touching countless lives and turning customers into treasured friends.

Holly shared a deep bond with her lifelong friends Mary Tipton, Ginger Lukacs, and Kathy Mitton and was cherished by her work family and dearest neighbors, Liz and Sid Potts. Those who knew Holly well also knew her love for her beloved dog, Pippa.

Although Holly was an only child she began a friendship over 50 years ago that would grow to be more. She became a sister, a cherished aunt and family, to Candy and Greg Watkins-Garrett, Mollie, Megan, and “Mimi” Carolyn McIlwain. She will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Andrew Lukacs, Patrick Lukacs, Bradley Potts, Sid Potts, Alan Tipton, Neal Tipton, Garrett Watkins, and Greg Watkins.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Willis-Knighton Medical Center North for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church School and the Gingerbread House.

“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” –
Proverbs 18:24


Remembering Michael Eric Alfred Avery

Michael Eric Alfred Avery, 75, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family on April 30, 2026.

Born on January 27, 1951, in Andover, Hampshire, England, Michael remained proudly and unmistakably British throughout his life, even after making America his home. He never fully gave up his homeland and quite possibly never forgave us for driving on the wrong side of the road.

Michael proudly served as the Chief Financial Officer of the Dolet Hills Mining Venture, where he was known for his sharp financial mind, steady leadership, and ability to keep things in order. Despite his clearly white-collar role, he loved to refer to himself as a “coal miner.”

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marion Avery; his sons, James (fiancée Angi Gullard) and Paul (wife Frances); his sister, Carol; his niece and nephew, Christina and Owen; and his treasured grandchildren, Lemak, Rome, and Diana to whom he was proudly known as “Pops,” a title he lived up to fully, creating memories his grandchildren will carry with them for a lifetime.

Michael was an avid golfer, a formidable dart player, and a passionate world traveler. He lived life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and just the right amount of mischief. His love for life was only surpassed by his devotion to his wife, Marion, though she may argue his occasional cigar tested that devotion from time to time.

He exuded wit and charm, a quintessential British gentleman, always ensuring that no lady opened a door or pulled out her own chair in his presence. Michael had a gift for holding court. Whether in an English pub, a fine restaurant, or at Connie’s Hide-A-Way, conversations with him always left you entertained, slightly perplexed, and better off for it. He was a lover of animals, a regular at the theater, and a firm believer in enjoying a good whiskey, beer, or wine, sometimes all in the same evening.

Michael didn’t do things halfway. He did it all and then some. Taking full advantage of his authoritative British accent he wove fiction into fact so seamlessly that it made you question your own knowledge on the subject. Why tell the truth? Why not something more interesting?

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His family and friends take comfort in knowing that he’s already found a proper pint, a good story, and an audience willing to listen. They look forward to joining him again one day for another round, a knowing wink, and sly smile.


Bossier Parish Fire District #1 firefighters attend national training conference

Four firefighters from Bossier Parish Fire District #1 recently attended the Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The opportunity was made possible through the Olinde-Porche Legacy scholarship awarded by the Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association.

Captain Dale Hardy, Captain Jeffrey Hardy, Firefighter Jc Calhoun and Firefighter Jac Calhoun participated in the conference, where they received training and instruction from experts across the country.

Department officials said the knowledge and experience gained will be shared with other members, helping to expand training in modern firefighting tactics and skills.


New partnership highlights mental health awareness through community initiative

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office is partnering with Galilee Baptist Church to support a month-long community initiative focused on mental health and domestic violence awareness. The series, titled Healing Matters: It’s Time to Talk, will take place each Wednesday in May and is designed to connect residents with resources and support systems.
 
Sessions will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with dinner served from 5:30 p.m. to 6:20 p.m.
 
They will include guided discussions led by local mental health professionals and community partners, offering insight into recognizing warning signs, responding effectively, and taking steps toward recovery.
 
The weekly schedule includes:
 
May 6 – Understanding and Awareness
Sessions will introduce key concepts related to mental health and domestic violence, including common conditions, warning signs, and the broader impact on individuals and families.
 
May 13 – Recognizing the Signs and Impact
Discussions will focus on how mental health challenges appear in daily life and explore the emotional, psychological, and physical effects of domestic violence.
 
May 20 – Responding and Taking Steps Forward
Participants will receive practical guidance on how to support those experiencing mental health challenges and how to safely respond to domestic violence while connecting individuals to trusted resources.
 
May 27 – Closing Gathering
 
The series will conclude with a gathering centered on hope and healing, featuring special guest Pastor Greg Oliver and Mount Canaan Baptist Church.
 
All sessions will be held at Galilee Baptist Church’s E. Edward & Leslie Jones Family Life Center. The event is open to the public.

Remembering Brenda Mallet

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, 10:00 AM on May 1, 2026, at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Jennings, LA, for Ms. Brenda Mallet, 79, who passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at her residence in Bossier City, LA.

Visiting hours will be held on May 1, 2026, at 8:00 AM and continue until her service begins at 10:00 AM.

The Very Reverend Keith A. Pellerin, V.F. will officiating, and burial will follow in the LeBlanc Cemetery.

Ms. Brenda was born in Crowley, LA on March 28, 1947, to the late Louis Quibodeaux and Amant Fruge Quibodeaux. Brenda was a devoted Catholic she was a long-time member of The Ladies Altar Society and Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Brenda enjoyed spending time with her beloved family and friends. She loved music and dancing with her husband Ronald. Brenda was a very social person who enjoyed visiting and holding meaningful conversations.

Brenda is survived by her daughter, Kristy Mallet; son, Perry Mallet (Erica); sister, Bonita Miller; grandchildren, Natalie LeBlanc (Vinoth) and Kelly Hilliard (Jacob); as well as two great grandchildren, Iris Mae Hilliard, Meara Hilliard.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald James Mallet; daughter, Sidonia Mallet; her father, Louis Quibodeaux; mother, Amant Fruge Quibodeaux; brothers, Louis Quibodeaux, Jr. and Richard Quibodeaux.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home JENNINGS, 511 North Cutting Avenue Jennings, LA 70546.


Remembering Lou Patsy Lindsay

Lou Patsy Lindsay, 70, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Methodist Dallas Medical Center in Dallas, Texas.

Life and Legacy

Born on November 22, 1955, in Shreveport to Willie and Gloria Graham, “Pat” or “Patsy,” as she was affectionately known, was a woman of profound brilliance and determination. A pioneer in her professional life, she served as a Biomedical Engineer at Ochsner (formerly LSUMC). She held the distinguished honor of being the first Black woman in the field of biomedical engineering at the institution, breaking barriers and inspiring all those who followed.

A Life of Joy

Outside of her professional achievements, Pat had a contagious zest for life. She was an avid traveler who loved exploring new places and was never happier than when she was on the dance floor. A devoted enthusiast of line dancing, she brought rhythm and energy to every gathering. At home, Pat found great joy in the simple pleasures of life; she was an avid reader and loved to cook for those she held dear. Her adventurous spirit, her creativity in the kitchen, and her love for a good book will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.

Family

Pat’s greatest legacy is the family she loved so dearly. She is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Nathaniel Lindsay. She leaves behind her daughter, Tammy Person (Paul, Jr.) of Arlington, Texas.

She was the proud “Meme” of four grandchildren: Jeramee White (Kate) of Justin, Texas; Brandee White of Houston, Texas; and Aniya Person and Paul Elijha Person III of Arlington, Texas. She is also survived by those she loved as her own children, her nieces and nephews: Antoinette Herndon (Anthony) of Camden, AR; Johnny Johnson Jr. (Karen) of Shreveport, LA; Lakeisha Williams of Meridian, MS; and James Johnson of Shreveport, LA; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Gloria Graham, and her brother, Johnny Johnson, Sr.


Shreveport Police arrest parent in truancy-related case

The Shreveport Police Department, in coordination with Caddo Parish School officials, continues efforts to hold parents accountable for ensuring their children attend school as required by law.
 
On April 24, 2026, Shreveport Police officers initiated an investigation after being notified by truancy officers of a child who had been habitually absent from school. School officials reported that the child’s parent failed to provide any documentation or valid justification for the excessive absences.
 
The child, age 10, has reportedly missed more than 65 days of school in 2026. Caddo Parish School employees documented multiple attempts to intervene and work with the family prior to law enforcement involvement.
 
On April 28, 2026, officers arrested Shantanell Page on one count of Improper Supervision of a Child. During the course of the arrest, Page also resisted officers and was additionally charged with Resisting an Officer. This marks her second arrest for improper supervision in 2026.
 
The Shreveport Police Department would like to thank Caddo Parish Public Schools for their continued partnership and dedication to the well-being and education of our community’s children.
 
Ensuring children attend school is not optional—it is a responsibility. SPD will continue working alongside our educational partners to address truancy issues and hold those accountable when necessary.

Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Mike Spence receives 2026 Liberty Bell Award

Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Mike Spence was honored today as the recipient of the 2026 Liberty Bell Award from the Shreveport Bar Association.

The Liberty Bell Award is presented to individuals who have made notable contributions toward promoting a better understanding of the law and the justice system.

Mike Spence received the recognition during a recent presentation by the Shreveport Bar Association.


Emergency preparedness meeting held at BOHSEP in Bossier Parish

The Bossier Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (BOHSEP) hosted the 2026 Louisiana Bankers Association Emergency Preparedness Meeting at its office earlier today.

The annual meeting, coordinated by the Louisiana Bankers Association and requested by Education Administrative Assistant Kim Brown, rotates between Bossier and Caddo parishes. The two-hour session brought together representatives from financial institutions, regulators, emergency personnel, law enforcement, the National Weather Service, and armored carriers.

According to BOHSEP Director Ian Snellgrove, 15 attendees participated in the meeting, focusing on strengthening preparedness and coordination across multiple sectors.

Presenters for this year’s meeting included the National Weather Service, the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions, and BOHSEP. Snellgrove said continued collaboration among agencies and organizations plays a key role in ensuring the community remains prepared for potential emergencies.


Remembering Tressie Mabel Robinette Wynn Sepeda

Tressie Mabel Robinette Wynn Sepeda, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026. She was born on December 18, 1938, in Bakersfield, California to Harold Robinette, Sr. and Grace Odell Mancil.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church, 1050 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop in Shreveport, Louisiana. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery, 307 Hammond St. in Zwolle, Louisiana. A visitation will be held Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Rd. in Shreveport. Officiating the service will be Father Mark Watson.

Tressie was a woman of strength and dignity, an example to all who knew her. She was an avid reader and a talented seamstress who loved sewing. Her faith was a guiding presence in her life. 

She is survived by her son, Bruce Wynn (Anita); granddaughter/daughter, Dawn Castie (Jeff); and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly. She also loved Ron, Don, James, and Angela Sepeda, as her own. She is also survived by her sisters, Peggy Burkett of Hall Summit, LA; Lanell Hartley of Middleburg, FL; Rita Hernandez of Pace, FL; and Dana Robinett of Pace, FL; and her brothers, Harold Robinett Jr. (Diane), and Douglas Robinett. Tressie was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Sepeda; her daughter, Brenda Williams; her sons, Brett Wynn and Richard Wynn; stepson, Mike Sepeda; sisters, Marydell Grubb and Neva Bonhomme; and brothers, Danny Robinette, Pat Mancil, and Tommy Robinette.

Tressie will be greatly missed, but the family will always love and cherish her memory.


Remembering Mary Helen Sessum Hawkins

Mary Helen Sessum Hawkins went to her heavenly resting place on Saturday, April 25 2026, while in the comfort of her home in Savannah, GA.

Mary was born in Vivian, LA on September 14, 1947. She was a 33 year employee of Lucent Technologies. After retiring, she and her husband moved to Savannah to be close to their son and family.

Mary and Jerry were avid round dancers, but what she was best known for was her love of sewing and quilting. To say she was a master of her craft is an understatement. She always made sure every stitch was perfect and sewn with love. She loved teaching classes and sharing her knowledge and skills with others.

She developed many close friendships with the ladies in her sewing community, and with her church family at the Sanctuary of Savannah. She always spoke so fondly of her friends, and appreciated the calls and visits as her health declined.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Jerry Sr; her parents, Robert and Lavern Sessum; one brother, Bobby Sesum; and one sister, Joyce McGee.

Mary is survived by her son and daughter in law, Jerry and Kelly Hawkins of Rocky Ford, GA; two grandsons, Thaddaus (Dawn) Deppen and Jordan Hawkins; three great-granddaughters Remy, Daliya, and Hazelee Deppen, and one sister Judy Inman.

Per Mary’s request, the family will hold a private memorial service at a later date to honor her. We appreciate all of the cards, calls, and messages, and ask that you continue to keep the family in your prayers.


Caddo Grand Jury indicts Anthony Edwards

In its session that ended Wednesday, April 22, 2026, the Caddo Parish Grand Jury indicted one man on a charge of second-degree murder.

Anthony Earl Edwards, 58, of Shreveport, is charged in connection with the June 28, 2025 death of Rosalind Sims, a 70-year-old Shreveport woman who was found deceased in a vacant lot just off the roadway in the 2100 block of Laurel Street. Police said she was walking westbound along Laurel when she was run over by her car that was being driven by Edwards, her boyfriend. Police said she had visible signs of trauma and was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Edwards is charged in docket No. 414714. He remains in custody at Caddo Correctional Center.


Weather outlook: Stormy midweek turns cooler across Caddo and Bossier parishes

A stretch of active weather is expected across northwest Louisiana as Caddo and Bossier parishes move through multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms midweek, followed by a noticeable cooldown heading into the weekend.

Wednesday will feature mostly cloudy skies across both parishes with a morning chance of showers and thunderstorms. Storm activity is expected to become more widespread during the afternoon hours. Temperatures will trend cooler than recent days, with highs in the mid to upper 70s. Winds will shift from light southwest or west flow in the morning to northerly flow by afternoon, helping usher in slightly cooler air.

By Wednesday night, showers are expected to continue, with a lingering chance of thunderstorms as moisture remains in place. Overnight lows will settle into the upper 50s to around 60 degrees, marking the start of a cooler pattern.

Thursday brings continued unsettled conditions with mostly cloudy skies and isolated to scattered showers possible throughout the day. A few thunderstorms cannot be ruled out. High temperatures will remain subdued, generally in the upper 60s to around 70. Northeast winds will pick up slightly at times, with occasional gusts adding to the cooler feel.

Thursday night keeps the chance of showers in place, with additional rounds of rain likely developing. Lows will drop into the mid 50s as cooler air becomes more established across the region.

Friday looks to be the most impactful weather day in the forecast period, with widespread showers expected and a chance for thunderstorms during the afternoon. Conditions will stay cool for late April, with highs ranging from the upper 50s in Caddo Parish to around 60 in Bossier Parish. Rain chances remain very high throughout the day.

Rain will likely continue into Friday night, though coverage may gradually decrease after sunset. Some lingering showers could persist into the overnight hours, with lows holding near 50 degrees.

A noticeable improvement arrives Saturday as drier air moves in. Skies will be partly cloudy with highs recovering into the upper 60s in Caddo Parish and near 70 in Bossier Parish. Saturday night turns mostly clear and cooler, with lows falling into the mid 40s.

Sunday brings a return to more typical spring conditions with mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid 70s across the region. Dry weather continues into Monday with sunshine and highs in the upper 70s.

By Tuesday, cloud cover begins to increase again with a slight chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms, though most areas should remain dry. Highs will climb back into the lower 80s as warmer air begins to return.


W.T. Lewis Elementary students graduate from D.A.R.E. program in Bossier Parish ceremony

Students at W.T. Lewis Elementary School were recognized during a recent ceremony marking their completion of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program, hosted in partnership with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The event brought together students, families, and school staff to celebrate the program’s conclusion, which focuses on helping students develop decision-making skills and make positive life choices.

The ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by 5th grade student Levi Harkins, followed by remarks from School Resource Officer Sarah Laurent and school leadership. Bossier Schools Assistant Superintendent Andrea Spinney spoke to students about using the D.A.R.E. Decision Making Model in their daily lives, while D.A.R.E. Coordinator SRO Deputy Cedric Payne encouraged students to carry the program’s lessons forward as they grow.

Several students were recognized for outstanding essays, including Benton Ocmand, Katinie Goodrum, Christopher Woodard, and Carmen Moreno. Woodard also read his winning essay aloud during the ceremony.

Levi Harkins received the Daren the Lion Award, recognizing leadership and positive influence among his peers. Students also performed a musical selection, including the D.A.R.E. Song, under the direction of music teacher Katie Muslow.

School leaders praised students for their effort and participation, and officials with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office extended congratulations to all participants for completing the program and representing their school and families with pride.


April 29 marked by royal milestones, conflict, and cultural shifts

April 29 has served as the backdrop for events ranging from historic weddings to moments of unrest, each leaving a lasting imprint on society.

One of the most widely recognized events tied to this date occurred in 2011, when Prince William married Catherine Middleton in a ceremony watched by millions around the world. The royal wedding was seen as a modernizing moment for the British monarchy, blending tradition with contemporary appeal and capturing global attention.

April 29 is also remembered for the 1992 Los Angeles riots, which erupted following the acquittal of police officers involved in the beating of Rodney King. The unrest lasted several days, resulting in widespread damage, injuries, and loss of life. The riots highlighted deep racial and economic tensions in the United States and prompted ongoing discussions about policing and justice.

In wartime history, April 29, 1945, marked the liberation of the Dachau concentration camp by Allied forces during World War II. The discovery of the camp’s conditions exposed the full extent of atrocities committed during the Holocaust and became a pivotal moment in documenting those crimes.

The date also carries significance in technological progress. In 2004, the final Oldsmobile rolled off the assembly line, marking the end of one of America’s oldest automobile brands and symbolizing shifts within the auto industry.

From celebration to conflict and remembrance, April 29 reflects the wide spectrum of human experience, illustrating how a single date can hold moments of joy, tragedy, and transformation.


Remembering Frederic “Fred” Halbur

Frederic Halbur, 64, “Fred”, son of Bobbie Bass and Norbert Halbur, loving husband of Diana Christine Halbur, passed away on April 9, 2026 at his home in Shreveport, LA.

He is survived by his wife, Diana; brother, Frank and his wife Shuala; and sister, Pat and her husband Albert.

Fred worked as an auto mechanic until his retirement in 2015, bringing his love of cars home with him to work on many occasions. He also loved animals, boat rides on the lake and scenic rides on the motorcycle.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.


Remembering Lee Allen Howell “Dub”

A funeral service for Lee Allen Howell “Dub,” 82, will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Springhill Cemetery in Ringgold, Louisiana. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Officiating the service will be Brother Chad Rhoades.

Lee was born on March 18, 1944, to Morgan Howell and Sadie Butler Howell in Winnfield, Louisiana, and passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Lee Howell spent his life working in the logging industry, a trade he respected and poured his strength into for many years. The heart of his world was his wife, Nancy Dubois Howell, with whom he shared 63 years of unwavering companionship. Their long marriage stood as a testament to loyalty, resilience, and a love that carried them through every season of life. Lee will be remembered for his quiet dedication and the steady presence he offered to those around him.

Lee was preceded in death by his father, Morgan Howell; mother, Sadie Butler Howell; brothers, M.L. Howell and Robert Howell; sister, Lucille Clifton Woodell; and mother-in-law, Maymie Dubois. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 63 years, Nancy Dubois Howell, and their baby, Lil Red Howell of Haughton, LA; brother, Thomas” Buddy” Howell and wife, Billie Jean of Castor, LA, and Jimmy Howell and wife, Carolyn of Stonewall, LA; and sister, Ann Howell of New Castle, OK.

Honoring Lee as pallbearers will be Colby Howell, Lucas Howell, Blake Howell, Richard Willis, Craig Howell, and Tommy Ashburn. Serving as an honorary pallbearer will be Joseph Boots Clifton.

The family suggests memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, http://www.stjude.org.

The family would like to extend a very special thanks to Pilgrim Manor for taking such good care of Lee.


Two south Louisiana men arrested in Shreveport auto theft attempt

Two men from south Louisiana were arrested early April 26 after Shreveport Police responded to a reported burglary in progress at a dealership on East Bert Kouns Industrial Loop.

Officers arrived around 1:45 a.m. and established a perimeter, taking both suspects into custody at the scene.

Authorities identified the suspects as Elijah Barnaba of Opelousas and Jacolby Castille of Lafayette. Investigators said the pair was in possession of a device used to program key fobs, along with other tools commonly associated with vehicle theft.

Both men were booked on multiple charges, including two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, possession of burglary tools and resisting an officer.

Police credited the quick response and coordination of patrol officers in preventing the theft and making the arrests.


Carport fire spreads to homes in Bossier Parish, displaces two families

A carport fire in the Dogwood North subdivision spread to multiple structures Sunday night, displacing two families, according to Bossier Parish Fire District No. 1.

Fire crews responded around 8:22 p.m. on April 26 to Dogwood Trail, where the carport was found fully engulfed upon arrival. The fire extended to the attached home, a neighboring residence and several vehicles.

Firefighters conducted water shuttle operations using 3,000-gallon engines until a water supply was established from a hydrant located about 900 feet away. Crews worked for approximately an hour to bring the fire under control.

No injuries were reported. A total of five engines, two rescue units, one EMS unit and three chiefs responded to the scene.


Bossier Chamber continues cleanup efforts during Love the Boot Week

The Bossier Chamber of Commerce hosted its second cleanup event of 2026 on Saturday as part of Love the Boot Week, with support from the organization’s Chamber Diplomats.

Love the Boot Week is a statewide initiative focused on litter removal and beautification, aimed at raising awareness about Louisiana’s litter problem while encouraging community involvement in cleanup efforts.

Chamber officials noted that while the official week has concluded, residents and businesses are encouraged to continue maintaining clean neighborhoods year-round.

More information and resources are available at keeplouisianabeautiful.org.


Shreveport police engage community with autism awareness events

The Shreveport Police Department’s Community-Oriented Policing Bureau participated in multiple community events over the weekend in support of autism awareness.

Officers attended the “Superhero Block Party – Light It Up Blue” event at Princess Park, where they interacted with families through games and activities while building connections with residents.

The bureau also took part in the Autism Awareness Superhero Fun Run at Betty Virginia Park, continuing outreach efforts and sharing information with attendees.

During both events, officers promoted the department’s Friends of the Community Program, which aims to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community.

Officials said the events provided an opportunity to support a meaningful cause while fostering positive engagement with local residents.