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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

In Loving Memory of Bert Allen McDaniel
December 29, 1942 – April 24, 2026

Bert Allen McDaniel, 83, longtime resident of Mobile, Alabama, passed away on April 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, warmth, and a life lived to its fullest. Born in the winter of 1942, Bert carried a steady, reliable spirit through eight decades of changing times, always remaining a foundational figure for his entire family and those who knew him.

He is survived by MaryLou Welsh McDaniel his devoted wife of 66 years. Daughters: Beverly Tompkins (Bobby) and Cheryl Kendrick (Brad), 6 Grandchildren: Kyle Saunders (Elizabeth), Amy Horzempa, Jeremy Jordan (Heather), John Tompkins (Jenny), Joseph Tompkins (Hannah) and Amber Kendrick. 3 Great Grandchildren: Collin Saunders, Noah Horzempa and Hudson Horzempa. 4 Sisters: Judy Flowers (Jesse), Patsy Slaughter (Clois), Shirley Cantley (Henry) and Sybil Lynn. 2 Brothers: Billy McDaniel (Ramona) and Harry McDaniel. 1 Aunt: Betty Railey (Jack). And numerous cousins, nephews and nieces. And all who will continue to honor his memory by carrying forward the values he instilled in them.

He joins those who passed before him, including 1 Son: Bert Jr (Bertie), 1 Daughter: Betty Jordan, Parents: Sybil and William (Bill) McDaniel and many other family members.

Bert, affectionately known as Buddy to his family, was defined by his love of his Savior Jesus Christ, giving spirit, devotion to his family, truly loving nature and the biggest Alabama Football fan in the family.

Bert’s journey was one of many seasons-Born in Elysian Fields, Texas, but grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana where he and his siblings had many adventures. He found joy in the simple things: Future Farmers of America, basketball, picking up his sweetheart in his truck for dates at the drive-in, working on the dairy farm, racing cars and building things with his hands and tools.

He attended LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas and pursued a career in welding supplies which took him and his wife to several places before settling in Mobile, Alabama.

He will always be loved and missed until we see him again in Heaven. Oh, what a glorious day that will be!

A visitation will be held at Osborn Funeral Home in Shreveport, Louisiana at 10:00am on Thursday April 30, 2026 followed by a graveside service to honor Bert’s life and legacy at 12:00pm in Forest Park West Cemetery Shreveport, Louisiana.

A Shreveport man was killed in a three-vehicle crash early Monday morning on Interstate 49 in Rapides Parish.

Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to the crash around 5:15 a.m. on April 27 near mile marker 101. The crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Dillon Jenkins of Shreveport.

According to the initial investigation, Jenkins was driving a 2022 Kawasaki motorcycle northbound on I-49 along with a 2018 Dodge Ram and a 2019 Toyota. Investigators said the driver of the Dodge Ram failed to slow down and rear-ended the motorcycle.

Following the impact, Jenkins was ejected from the motorcycle and was then struck by the Toyota.

Jenkins sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The drivers of both the Dodge Ram and the Toyota, who were properly restrained, were not injured.

Toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

State police noted that distracted and inattentive driving remains a leading cause of crashes and urged motorists to remain alert, warning that even a brief lapse in attention can have deadly consequences.

Shreveport police have arrested a suspect accused of attempting to cash fraudulent checks at a local credit union.

According to the Shreveport Police Department, officers responded April 22, 2026, around 2:35 p.m. to Wesla Federal Credit Union’s Fern Branch after receiving a report of an individual attempting to negotiate a fraudulent check. Upon arrival, officers identified the suspect as Berma Hogan, who was allegedly attempting to cash a $900 fraudulent check.

Investigators determined Hogan had successfully negotiated two additional fraudulent checks in the days prior, including transactions on April 20 at the Fern Branch and April 21 at the Williamson Way Branch of Wesla Federal Credit Union. Both checks were later returned after officials found no record of the associated account.

Hogan was taken into custody without incident and charged with bank fraud.

Authorities credited responding officers and the Shreveport-Caddo Financial Crimes Task Force for their role in identifying and stopping the scheme.

The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Shreveport Police Department or Caddo Crime Stoppers.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

By JASON PUGH, NSU Sports Information Director

The numbers Sam Goodwin compiled walking the sidelines as Northwestern State’s football coach speak for themselves.

The 102 wins, the four conference championships, the 22 All-Americans and 38 NFL players produced in 17 seasons he coached are impressive, but they fail to encapsulate what Goodwin meant to the legion of Demon players who flourished on and off the field under his tutelage. He was celebrated in a stirring 90-minute memorial service Saturday morning at NSU’s Turpin Stadium, with an array of speakers sharing memories – some poignant, some powerful, some hilarious, but all compelling.

Former players, coaches, staff and colleagues along with hundreds of supporters and friends, and the 2026 NSU football team, attended the event.

“Coach was just a great human being, a great person,” said wide receiver Pat Palmer, a 2016 N-Club Hall of Fame inductee and a member of the Top 100 Demon Players of All-Time. “He loved his players. He proved that year after year. I gave coach a few problems during my time, but he loved me regardless. He was always there for me no matter what the situation. He influenced a lot of boys to be men.”

In 17 seasons as Northwestern’s head coach, Goodwin took the Demons to three Southland Conference championships and a Gulf Star Conference title.

Palmer was a key member of Northwestern’s 1997 SLC title team before playing professionally in the NFL (2000-02) and the CFL. He credited Goodwin’s influence for helping shape him as a player and as a person.

“I was leaving school one weekend, going home and got pulled over,” Palmer said. “I kind of got into a little debacle. Coach Goodwin didn’t have to do this, but coach came to court with me. Even though nothing came of it, it was the idea he showed up. He didn’t have to do that. He could have said, ‘I’m done with this player.’ He literally showed up.

“He would show up for you, no matter what it was. It wasn’t just about football. He was genuinely a good man.”

Goodwin’s impact was not limited to just his players or how it affected them in their playing career.

Former Northwestern head coach Brad Laird both played and coached for Goodwin as part of his Demon journey. Long before he set the school’s since-broken all-time passing yardage mark, Laird was a down-the-depth-chart option who was forced into his first start as a freshman at then-Southwest Texas State.

After an inauspicious beginning – Laird threw three interceptions in the first quarter – the quarterback learned what kind of man his head coach was.

“This is a memory I won’t forget,” said Laird, now the head coach at Natchitoches Central High School. “We’re sitting on the bus waiting for the long ride home. The last one to walk from the locker room to the bus was coach Goodwin. I vividly remember him walking to the bus and when he got on the bus it was like he had more confidence in me then he did prior to the game. That’s how I felt. That’s how he made people feel. That’s why he had the success he did. He turned those situations into opportunities to be successful. Him sticking with me is probably why I am where I am today.”

Laird, whose Demon playing career covered the 1991 through 1995 seasons, is the son of a football coach, but it wasn’t clear he would follow his father’s footsteps into the family business.

Goodwin helped see that the Laird coaching tree grew another branch.

“There are a few coaches that, outside of my mom and dad, had a big impact on my career, and Sam Goodwin is on top of that list,” said Laird, who served as a graduate assistant under Goodwin in 1996. “At that time, I didn’t know it, but looking back, he definitely saw something in me, not just as a player but also as a coach before anybody else did. That belief in me really changed the trajectory of my career. My first year playing football at Northwestern, I wasn’t going toward being a coach. I was going in a different direction. As I watched the way he impacted us, that was the biggest influence on where I am today.”

Goodwin’s final season at the helm of Northwestern was in 1999 – one year after taking the Demons to the FCS semifinals and a school-record-tying 11-win season.

Nearly three decades later, he could still be found around the Donald G. Kelly Athletic Complex, lending an open ear or an encouraging word for current Demon head coach Blaine McCorkle.

Much like Laird, McCorkle is the son of a football coach, having grown up around the game.

Upon Goodwin’s passing, McCorkle posted a moving tribute on social media focused on the encouragement Goodwin gave to the man who now occupies his former office, coaching until the very end.

“The origin of the word coach is a Hungarian term for a carriage that takes you somewhere you can’t go by yourself,” McCorkle said. “That’s what we need coaches for. That’s why I needed him. I couldn’t start the first two years without knowing he was in my corner. So, wherever we go in the future, it’s going to be because he helped carry me and our staff there to get us started.

“He is Northwestern State football. He did it as well as anybody here. He is the standard. I get the unique privilege to stand on the shoulders of a giant, and I don’t take that lightly.”

Funeral services honoring the life of Cleveland Wayne Wyatt Sr. will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Old Pisgah Baptist Church, 15192 LA-120, Marthaville, Louisiana. A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. Officiating the service will be Bro. Eric Wilburn.

Cleveland Wayne Wyatt Sr. of DeBerry, Texas, known to many as Dad, Papa, Grandpa, Uncle Wayne, and above all, a devoted and loving husband, passed on April 22, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana at the age of 70. He was born on August 14, 1955, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Cleveland DeVance Wyatt and Gladys Odessa Goings.

Wayne spent most of his life working in the oil and gas industry and was a business owner of several ventures over the years. He was a true jack-of-all-trades—there wasn’t much he couldn’t do or fix. If someone was stuck, struggling, or simply needed a helping hand, Wayne was the one you called. Whether it was pulling someone out of the mud, helping build a home, cutting down a tree, rewiring a house, fixing a vehicle, or just sitting and listening, he was always there.

He was a contractor for many years and took pride in his work, but even more so in the people he helped along the way. Wayne coached many of his son’s teams growing up and became a father figure to countless kids who weren’t his own. To his children’s friends—and really to anyone who needed it—he was simply “Dad.”

Wayne was a man of God whose faith never wavered. Through every challenge he faced, he remained strong, trusting in God’s grace and never giving up. He was one of the strongest men his family has ever known, a man whose life was a testimony of perseverance, faith, and unconditional love. He loved his family deeply and without question—his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world.

Honoring Wayne as pallbearers will be Wayne Wyatt II, Dan Landreneaux, Taylor Pierce, Jeff Anders, Abram Anders, Chad Stackpole, Brandon Bertolis, and Luis Deleon. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Feazel and Jerry Sandifer.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland Wyatt and Gladys Phillips; his brother, Ronnie Dale Wyatt; and his granddaughter, Addisyn Wyatt.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 33 years, Jo-Nell Wyatt; his son, Wayne Wyatt II and wife Michal; his daughters, Quinnon Anders and husband Jeff, Olivia Wyatt and significant other Dan Landreneaux, and Emily Wyatt and significant other Taylor Pierce. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Abram Anders and wife Kennedy, Emalyn Anders and fiancé Johnathan, Lawson Wyatt, Lucas Ortiz, and Walker Wyatt; and his great-grandchildren, Madelyn Demoss, Alexander Demoss, and Parker Anders, along with numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends

Mary Elizabeth Hendrick Krauel passed away on April 24, 2026 at the age of 93. She was born in Shreveport, LA, where she attended local schools and graduated from Byrd High School in 1950. She attended SMU in Dallas, TX, where she belonged to Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. While at SMU, she met and married the love of her life, Robert W. Krauel. They made their home in Shreveport.

Mrs. Krauel held BA and Master’s degrees plus 48 hours above the masters. After obtaining her BA and Master’s degree from Northwestern State University, she was inducted into the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi honor society. She was a long-time member of the Retired Teacher’s Association and the Caddo Retired Teacher’s Association. She was instrumental in writing the guidelines for the first fundamental elementary school from which most of the elementary and middle school magnets have sprung. She also helped write guidelines for the Secondary Aide Program for Caddo Parrish. After retiring from teaching, she owned and operated The Writer’s Service.

Mrs. Krauel loved working in her garden and said, “It was good for her soul.” She organized the Spring Lake Garden Club and served as president. Mrs. Krauel was a long-time, faithful member of Broadmoor Baptist Church and a loyal member of her Sunday School class. When her children were young, she taught youth Sunday School and served as leader of the Youth Training Union.

Mary Elizabeth Krauel was preceded in death by her parents, Judge Ruvian D. Hendrick and Willie Ford Hendrick; her beloved husband of 67 years, Robert W. Krauel; her son Robert W. Krauel, Jr; and her brother Ruvian D. Hendrick, Jr. She is survived by daughter Diane Krauel Perkins (Cecil); granddaughters Laura Colvin (Bradley), Leslie Mulford (Andrew), and Lynn Jenkins (Matthew); grandsons, Ian Krauel and Eric Krauel; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Mary Elizabeth was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Shreveport, LA, Broadmoor Baptist Church, or charity of donor’s choice.

Bossier Parish officials say this year’s Operation Clean Sweep resulted in a significant cleanup effort across parish roadways.

According to the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, a total of 11.5 tons of trash were removed and 27 tires were properly disposed of during the community-wide initiative.

Sheriff Whittington and the sheriff’s office expressed appreciation to all participants, noting the strong turnout and collaboration that helped make the event successful. Officials said the effort reflects ongoing community pride and a commitment to keeping Bossier Parish clean and maintained.

Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation has provided an update on planned dredging work at the Earl G. Williamson boat launch, according to District 1 Commissioner Chris Kracman.

Parks and Recreation Director Patrick Wesley said the parish will begin receiving contractor quotes in June and July. After selecting a contractor, officials will confirm a work schedule, with dredging potentially beginning in late August or early September.

Officials noted that late summer is typically chosen for the project because water levels at Caddo Lake are at their lowest near the ramp, allowing for easier access for contractors. The dredging process is expected to take about two weeks, depending on weather conditions.

The Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning (BPSTIL) recently held its National Technical Honor Society induction ceremony, celebrating students recognized for excellence in career and technical education.

School officials highlighted the inductees’ leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to their chosen technical fields. The students were praised for their dedication and readiness to contribute to both their community and future careers.

BPSTIL congratulated all new members of the National Technical Honor Society, noting that their hard work and perseverance have earned them this recognition.

Danny Lynn Brotherton, of Coushatta, Louisiana, passed awayMonday, April 20, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Danny was born in Independence, Missouri, on November 9, 1962, to his parents, William Andrew “Bill” Brotherton and Gwendolyn May “Gwen” Tooley. He grew up in Carrollton, Missouri, alongside his many siblings and cousins.

He married Velma Ann Keith (Brotherton) in October 1981, both at the age of eighteen. They were married for over forty-fouryears. Together they had three daughters, Amanda Daniele Brotherton (Todd), Allison Ann Brotherton (Hayes), and Adrianna Lynn Brotherton, who were his pride and joy.

Danny was a certified general contractor, and worked in concrete construction all of his life, beginning full-time at the age of fifteen.He was a founder of B&B Construction with his father, Bill, and brother-in-law, Joey Cason, Sr. He also founded and operated Grand Bayou Construction and Brotherton Concrete Construction. When he retired from concrete construction, Danny became a certified pipeline welding inspector and member of the 406 unionas a foreman supervisor over natural gas stations.

In his spare time, Danny was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying deer hunting, squirrel hunting, dove hunting, and coon hunting, a passion he shared with his father, a lifetime member of the Blue Tick Breeders of America. He received many trophies for his hunting efforts and coonhounds. Danny shared his love of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren, always with one or more in tow. Danny also loved to travel with his family, driving all over the United States.

Danny was a proud grandfather to his four grandchildren, who lovingly referred to him as “PaPaw,” Olivia Anne Todd, John Curtis Todd, Ty Wesley Hayes and Daniel Henry “Danny” Todd. He loved spending time with all of his grandchildren, sharing stories and riding ATVs around the family property.

Danny is preceded in death by his mother and father, his siblings, Robert Brotherton, Rita Holler, Virginia Bourdon, Chuck Thompson, Roy Allen Brotherton, Tommy Boyce, and Dolore Faye Clark.

Danny is survived by his loving wife, Velma; his children and grandchildren; his surviving siblings, Barbara Cloud, HelenThomas, and Carolyn and Joey Cason, all of Carrollton, MO; Paul and Jan Thompson of Hall Summit, LA; Judy and Scotty Haywood of Pittsburg, TX; and Rhonda Brotherton, all of Kansas City, MO; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at New Life Church of Red River, 5047 Duke Avenue, Hall Summit, LA 71034, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. and service beginning at 12:00 p.m. A private burial will follow with the family. Dr. Collin Wimberly, dear pastor and friend to the deceased, will officiate the ceremony.

Pallbearers will be Joey Cason, Jr., Ken Cason, Jr., Landon Sturgeon, Shane Hubbard, Cody Hubbard, Dalton “Bubba” Hubbard, David “Trouble” Beard, Mason Pierce, and Bradin Millett.

Honorary Pallbearers are Joey Cason, Sr., Patrick Bryant, Matthew Todd, and Madison Pierce.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the team fromIntensive Specialty Hospital and Dr. Abdehou for their wonderful care and treatment of Mr. Brotherton

James “Jimmy” Donald Embry of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on April 23, 2026, after a courageous battle against colorectal cancer, at the age of 40.

Jimmy was born on September 5, 1985, in Bossier City, Louisiana. Known for his sharp intellect, quick wit, and old school eclectic spirit, he was truly the smartest man many of us ever knew. He had a deep passion for building and collecting Gundam models, playing and trading collector cards, and loved playing Dungeons & Dragons with his work family and friends. Jimmy was also a trivia extraordinaire whose vast knowledge and curiosity made every conversation interesting and every game night memorable.

Above all else, Jimmy’s greatest love was his girlfriend and the love of his life, Sydney McDermott, his other half, who loved him beyond what words can express, cared for him with unwavering devotion, and is truly an angel on earth. He was also the devoted human of his beloved cat, Puddin, who generously allowed Jimmy to live in her home and serve as her full-time staff.

He is survived by his girlfriend, Sydney McDermott; his mother, Tina Jones; his father, Edwin Embry (Shawn); step-father, Philip Jones; his sister, Brooke Embry (Lindsay); his brother, Philip “PJ” Jones Jr.; and his beloved nieces, Olive and Hazel Embry. Jimmy also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss his humor, intelligence, and unique perspective on the world.

In accordance with Jimmy’s final wishes to donate his body for medical research, a private celebration of his life with his family and friends will be planned.

Jimmy’s memory will live on in the countless laughs, stories, and moments of wonder he shared with those who loved him.

The Shreveport Police Department reported several recent arrests as part of an ongoing effort to remove illegal firearms from the streets and target individuals prohibited from possessing weapons.

According to the department, multiple arrests were made between April 17 and April 21 involving individuals accused of illegally carrying firearms or related offenses.

On April 21, Jabreland Thompson, Rodriguez Walker and James Tyler were arrested and charged with illegal carrying of weapons and squatting. Authorities said Thompson is a convicted felon with prior firearm and burglary convictions.

On April 20 at approximately 12:30 p.m., Michael Smith was arrested for unauthorized entry. Officers reported he was found in possession of a firearm despite prior convictions for armed robbery, simple robbery, felony theft and narcotics offenses. He now faces a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Earlier that day around 10:50 a.m., Cartez Anderson was arrested following a domestic incident and charged with simple battery of a dating partner and illegal carrying of a weapon.

On April 18, Roderick Simpson was arrested and charged with theft of a firearm. Police said he is also prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions.

On April 17, Lorenzo Louis was arrested after allegedly pointing a firearm at a woman during a dispute. Authorities said he is a convicted felon and faces charges related to illegal possession of a firearm.

Police officials said the department will continue focusing enforcement efforts on individuals illegally possessing firearms.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office swore in seven new deputies during a ceremony held April 22.

Caddo Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. administered the oath of office to the newly appointed personnel, who will serve in various divisions within the agency.

Three deputies were assigned to the Corrections Division: Jermarquis Harvey, Kenton Hood and Dacallier McClure.

Three deputies were assigned to Patrol: Stephanie Poole, Branthony Brown and Brandon Lewis.

Lesley Lacy was sworn in as a domestic violence advocate and will serve in the agency’s Domestic Violence Unit.

The sheriff’s office continues to recruit new personnel for a range of positions, including corrections deputies, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, building and groundskeepers, part-time courthouse security personnel and part-time work release drivers. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. More information on qualifications, benefits and the application process is available at the agency’s website.

The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation, also known as The Uvalde Foundation for Kids, today announced the distribution of $1,005.34 in raised funds within 24 hours of launching its response to the Shreveport tragedy. The rapid deployment of direct financial support for victims underscores what leadership described as a rare, student-led national mobilization capable of generating and deploying aid in real time.

The Foundation confirmed that the funds were directed to the Community Foundation of North Louisiana Survivors Fund, ensuring rapid delivery of financial assistance to victims and families impacted in the immediate aftermath.

“This was not just a fundraiser — it was an immediate response,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder and President of the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation. “Within 24 hours, students and supporters across multiple states came together, raised funds, and ensured that direct financial support reached victims. That level of urgency and compassion is extraordinary.”

According to the Foundation, the campaign was uniquely structured as a multi-state, student-led initiative, with youth participants actively organizing and driving outreach efforts. Students in Maryland led grassroots fundraising efforts, while youth in Texas coordinated media distribution and digital amplification. At the same time, individuals across the country contributed donations ranging from $10 to $200 and beyond, forming a broad-based national response.

“This was not a passive online campaign,” Chapin added. “This was a fluid movement — young people crossing state lines with purpose, compassion, and action to show Shreveport that they are not alone.”

The Foundation further confirmed that ongoing fundraising efforts will continue through May 1, with proceeds supporting both the Louisiana Survivors Fund and the “Love One Louisiana” initiative, which has committed to covering funeral expenses for the victims.

In addition to financial support, the Foundation has activated its 24-hour Community Crisis Line (254-499-8027), providing access to youth peer support specialists and licensed counselors, and continues coordinating with local and national partners to expand recovery resources.

The Foundation also reaffirmed that the victims will be honored through its national “Trees for Peace” memorial initiative, ensuring their lives are remembered through long-term, living tributes. This commitment to honoring victims follows recent tributes by local leadership, including the Natchitoches Parish School Board, which held a moment of silence during its April 21 meeting for the young people lost in the Shreveport area.

“Our commitment is not just to respond, but to respond immediately and meaningfully,” Chapin said. “What we’ve seen here is proof that when young people lead with compassion, real impact follows — and it happens fast.”

Funeral services for Martha Maxine Bolgiano, 63, will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Old Pisgah Cemetery, 15192 LA-120 in Marthaville, Louisiana. A visitation will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Officiating the services will be Pastor Ron Mattox.

Martha was born August 10, 1962 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Clinton “Buddy” Wyatt and Gracie Desoto Wyatt and passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Shreveport.

Martha was a resident of Blanchard, Louisiana. She graduated from Waskom High School. After graduation, she worked as a cook/cashier for many years. She was married for 40 years to the love of her life, Duane Bolgiano, until his passing. She loved God, her family, and her dog, Bear. She was a very sweet and caring person and always put others first. Her hobbies consisted of reading and gardening which she enjoyed very much.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Duane Bolgiano; sister, Kathy Young; brothers, Mike, Robert, Wendell, and baby brother, Wyatt. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Seth Bolgiano (Jen), Amanda Slade and husband, Dustin, Jesse Bolgiano and wife, Amber, Laura Emerson and husband, Keith, and Joe Bolgiano; brother, Calvin Wyatt and wife, Tammy; 12 grandchildren, Grace, Maelee, Hailey, Parker, Lillian, Presleigh, Makayla (Austin), Ryleigh, Layne, Olivia, and Reid; and many great-grandchildren.

Honoring Martha as pallbearers will be Seth Bolgiano, Jesse Bolgiano, Joe Bolgiano, Dustin Slade, Billy Young, and Austin Terry. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Calvin Wyatt and Shawn Collins.