Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES (KSLA) - The Natchitoches Police Department is looking for a teenager allegedly involved in a double shooting at the Whataburger in the 5000 block of University Parkway who reportedly said a group of people showed up at the fast food place when a fight broke out reportedly got a gun and fired into the parking lot Everyone got away from the scene before police showed up Deputies with the sheriff’s office were able to find the victims in a car on I-49 Both people were taken to a hospital in Shreveport It’s unclear how serious their injuries are at this time officers found evidence that will be analyzed by the crime lab A warrant has been issued for Shuler’s arrest He’s facing five counts of attempted second-degree murder Anyone with information on Shuler’s whereabouts is asked to call police at 318-352-8101 or call Detective Davanta Stevenson at 318-357-3817 Shuler should be considered armed and dangerous -- Natchitoches police are looking for a man considered armed and dangerous in connection with a double shooting Thursday evening is wanted on five counts of attempted second-degree murder Natchitoches police said no one should approach him; call the Police Department instead at Whataburger in the 5000 block of University Parkway Witnesses told police a group of people got into a fight and Schuler allegedly got a gun and fired into the parking lot Shuler and the victims left the scene before officers arrived Natchitoches Parish sheriff's deputies stopped the vehicle that two shooting victims were in on Interstate 49 They were taken to a Shreveport hospital for treatment of their gunshot wounds Bullet casings and evidence were retrieved at the shooting scene Anyone who has seen Shuler is asked to contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or Det Local breaking news delivered as it happens News headlines delivered at 7:00 am Monday - Friday News headlines delivered at Noon Monday - Friday News headlines delivered at 4:00 pm Monday - Friday Weather forecast delivered at 9:00 am daily Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited seven subjects for alleged duck hunting violations in Natchitoches Parish on Jan for hunting migratory game birds over a baited area possession of an untagged migratory game bird aiding and abetting others in taking migratory game birds over a baited area and possessing over the limit of migratory game birds.Agents documented a baited area in a bayou in Natchitoches Parish in mid-January Agents setup surveillance on the area and on Jan 26 observed the subjects actively hunting over the baited area.Agents made contact with the subjects and found them in possession of 19 wood ducks which put him one over the daily limit of wood ducks Agents seized the 19 ducks and donated them to a local charity.This migratory game bird case has been filed with the U.S Attorney’s Office for prosecution in Federal Court.Agents involved in the case are Lt Drugs seized in arrest of Yepremian Zeno in Natchitoches on Friday -- A Natchitoches Parish man is in custody after an almost endless list of illegal drugs were found in his vehicle following a traffic stop and chase such as 25 counts of possession of assorted drugs 17 counts of illegal carrying of weapons in the presence of drugs possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and much more Officers tried to stop Zeno for traffic violations Friday afternoon at Pavie and Anita streets but he sped away and went to a house on Pavie Street while the passenger continued into the neighborhood and was able to escape pursuing officers Zeno came outside and was arrested without incident · One Springfield XD-9 that was reported stolen through the Natchitoches Police Department · Four grams of suspected synthetic marijuana · One pill suspected to be Cyclobenzaphine Hydrochloride · 150 yellow Oxycodone Hydrochloride pills · 28 orange Amphetamine Dextroamphetamine pills Zeno was placed in the LaSalle Corrections / Natchitoches Detention Center By KALB Digital TeamPublished: May 2025 at 5:19 PM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES (KALB) - A Natchitoches man was arrested on gun and drug charges on May 2 on Pavie Street according to the Natchitoches Police Department NPD said he refused to stop and drove to a home in the 1100 block of Pavie Street NPD said Zeno fled into the home while the passenger ran into the neighborhood and was able to escape NPD said Zeno then came back outside and was placed under arrest charged with possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain felonies 17 counts of illegal carrying of weapons in the presence of CDS three counts of possession of Schedule I with the intent to distribute one count of possession of Schedule IV and four counts of possession of drug paraphernalia Click here to report a typo Please provide the title of the article in your email By KALB Digital TeamPublished: Mar 2025 at 7:52 PM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES (KALB) - A Natchitoches man has been arrested for aggravated battery following a shooting on South Drive on March 17 The Natchitoches Police Department reported that shortly after 10:30 a.m. NPD officers located a man who was shot in the foot in the 1800 block of South Drive who said he got into an argument with the suspect Witnesses said Shield then escaped on a tricycle Shields was found on Brewton Street and arrested He is being held at the Natchitoches Police Department due to the LaSalle Corrections / Natchitoches Detention Center being at capacity 2025 at 5:58 PM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES (KALB) - The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested the following individuals over the past week: Click here to report a typo By KALB Digital TeamPublished: Apr 2025 at 1:40 PM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES (KALB) - The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office said that on April 11 its Impact Team conducted an operation that resulted in several traffic citations issued two vehicles being impounded and four people being arrested when they stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation NPSO said their deputies learned that Triggs’ driver’s license was suspended and he was wanted by the 10th Judicial District Court in Natchitoches for failure to appear in court on June 21 for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon-2nd offense illegal possession of a firearm and aggravated assault with a firearm NPSO said deputies smelled a strong marijuana odor while speaking with Triggs and also learned that Charles was wanted by the 10th Judicial District Court for failure to appear in court for possession of marijuana A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of four cellophane bags containing 959 suspected ecstasy tablets a cellophane bag containing six oxycodone narcotic pills a bottle containing 84 suspected tramadol narcotic pills a small bag containing suspected marijuana and a partially burned suspected marijuana blunt Triggs was booked into the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with failure to appear in district court on June 21 for possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony-2nd offense illegal possession of a firearm and aggravated assault he is also charged with possession of ecstasy with intent to distribute possession of tramadol with intent to distribute driving under suspension and other traffic charges Charles was charged with failure to appear in court for possession of marijuana He was released on bond pending a new court date The operation also resulted in the following arrests on April 11: was charged with a Red River Parish criminal warrant for domestic abuse battery He was booked into LaSalle Corrections and later released to Red River Parish deputies was charged with speeding 79/55 and a Natchitoches City Marshal’s warrant for failure to appear The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Impact Team consists of members from the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau Patrol Operations Bureau and Drug Enforcement Unit narcotics violations and property crimes in communities across Natchitoches Parish Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInCLARENCE said he believes all four victims have been released from the hospital He says they are not cooperating with law enforcement Byles said the sheriff’s office has been unable to reach the event organizers and owners of the property He said multiple fights happened at the event Four Shreveport residents were shot during a trail ride event in Natchitoches Parish on Saturday when the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple reports of gunfire off of Catholic Lane in Clarence deputies were met with heavy traffic and a crowd of more than 4,000 people Four people were found with gunshot wounds Emergency medical units from Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and Air EVAC Life Team helicopters were sent to transport the victims to the hospital Jonathan Byles said that all four victims are doing “okay” and that Locals near Clarence want the adults to be held accountable if there was any adult out there that knew guns were out there that they should’ve known better,” one man said Detectives believe the shooter or shooters got away from the scene before law enforcement could get there NPSO and the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations are leading the investigation Special lighting equipment from Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District 9 was used to photograph and process the scene for more than three hours A private group provided security for the event and NPSO was not provided details for the event Byles said there were a total of four security guards events such as this are not required to obtain a permit Byles said the parish will be having a special meeting to potentially reconsider that position Detectives are asking you to come forward if you have any information or video footage Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau at 318-357-7830 the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-357-7851 or Crime Stoppers of Natchitoches at 318-238-2388 Tips may be eligible for a reward and will remain confidential (KSLA) - The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested a man accused of obscenity officers were sent out to a business in the 900 block of Keyser Avenue about a man acting inappropriately inside the store who said the man was seen on surveillance video following customers while pleasing himself sexually (KSLA) - The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested a man for a shooting that happened Feb officers were called out to a local hospital about a patient with a gunshot wound who said she was in her bedroom when a bullet came through the wall The patient was later taken to a hospital in Rapides Parish for further treatment Investigators were able to identify Ajai Johnson Police say he fired a gun inside the apartment Detectives searched Johnson’s car and apartment and found a gun and several other pieces of evidence which will be sent to the crime lab for analysis Johnson was booked into the Natchitoches Detention Center on charges of second-degree cruelty to juveniles possession of a firearm by a convicted felon Anyone with more info about this case should call Detective Morgan Jester at 318-357-3810 Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES PARISH (KALB) - Natchitoches Parish District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington announced on Friday of Natchitoches was indicted by a grand jury They said a grand jury indictment is a formal charge issued by a panel of Natchitoches Parish citizens signifying that sufficient evidence exists to proceed with prosecution Hudson has reportedly been indicted on one count of possession of more than 250 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force announced back in June 2024 that Antonio Hudson was arrested following a traffic stop Following further investigation and the execution of two search warrants authorities recovered 919 grams (about two pounds) of suspected fentanyl alongside lab equipment and other suspected illegal drugs Authorities said on Friday that a conviction for possession of more than 250 grams of fentanyl has a mandatory sentence of life in prison at hard labor with at least 25 years minimum without the possibility of parole Hudson is scheduled to stand trial on May 5 Click here to report a typo Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedIn(KSLA) — Some public secondary and college students will get an extra day off this week All Sabine and Natchitoches parish public school campuses will remain closed Tuesday (Jan 21) due to expected wintry weather conditions The schools already will be closed Monday (Jan “This decision was made after collaboration with local authorities and the National Weather Service,” Sabine Public Schools posted Sunday afternoon (Jan “We will continue monitoring this winter weather event and inform everyone if further closures are needed staff and families remains our top priority.” The Natchitoches Parish School Board posted a similar message Saturday (Jan we hope to give families time to plan and prepare,” the statement says “We will continue to monitor conditions and keep you updated regarding school operations for Wednesday We hope everyone enjoys the snow day and stays warm • Bossier Parish Community College campuses in Bossier City Many and Natchitoches also will be closed through Tuesday (Jan Day and the anticipation of wintry weather virtual classes will still meet and student services will still be available virtually “Campuses are scheduled to reopen Wednesday January 22nd.,” BPCC announced Sunday (Jan “Administrators will continue to monitor the weather throughout the week and send updates as needed Information will be posted on the BPCC website social media and communicated through BPCC email and CAVSalert System.” • Northwestern State University announced Saturday (Jan. 18) that all of its campuses will be closed Tuesday (Jan. 21) due to expected wintry precipitation. Administrators will continue to monitor weather conditions and announce updates via social media and at www.nsula.edu (KALB) - Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office reported that three people were arrested on January 14 following a narcotics investigation in Natchitoches NPSO said Natchitoches Parish Drug Enforcement Units and the Natchitoches Police Department Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at the 100 block of Amanda Drive where Michael Edwards Authorities had reportedly been investigating Edwards for several months prior to Tuesday authorities found about eight ounces of suspected ‘blue’ fentanyl some in bulk and some in prepackaged baggies They also found drug paraphernalia and a handgun NPSO said three people were arrested at the scene on numerous charges the amount of suspected fentanyl they seized is equivalent to over 113,000 potentially lethal doses Booking images of Currington and Howard were not yet available Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInThe following was released by NSU: Jeff Landry visited Northwestern State University on Feb education and economic development to address the pending closure of International Paper’s Red River Mill in Campti and its projected negative impact for Natchitoches Parish “There is no one who understands the economic impact of the loss of these jobs more than me,” Landry said referencing the closure of multiple Fruit of the Loom facilities in south Louisiana in the 1990s and early 2000s “It’s not only the jobs that are leaving the Campti facility but the downstream effect of what it does to the small businesses that are attached I can tell you that we will continue to work towards building economic opportunities throughout central and north Louisiana.” “I think that the greatest opportunity that we have for economic development is actually central and northern Louisiana,” he said referencing the selection of Richland Parish as the site of Meta’s $10 billion artificial intelligence data center The governor said a proposed constitutional amendment on the March 29 ballot to reform the state’s tax code could open new opportunities to bring jobs to north and central Louisiana He has also tasked higher education administrators with shaping Louisiana’s universities and community college systems to support jobs and industry “I think it’s evident from the governor’s remarks that his intention is clearly to bring the full force of the government to do whatever we can do to mitigate the reality of this decision by IP,” said Susan Bourgeois secretary of the Department of Louisiana Economic Development “One of the things I started out talking about in my role was that we really had to take the whole of government approach to economic development It’s not just a government solution to the challenges or the opportunities that we face It really does have to be the private sector Bourgeois said her office is currently working with five active wood-related projects in north Louisiana “We’ve announced 21 wood-related projects in the last seven years that our team is now going to focus on seeing about placement of employees placement of product and how we can redeploy some of the Louisiana resources that were used at the Campti facility in those projects,” Bourgeois said secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission said she has engaged a rapid response team who can offer services specifically for IP workers “The IP workers are getting services in career counseling envisioning where their career could go and how to connect with training We can help offset the cost of that training with the focus of getting people jobs right here in this area.” “We want to do as much as we can to backfill what the closure is going to cause,” Landry said “We will work as hard as we can and the good news is you’ve got other areas of the state that are performing and a high tide has a tendency to lift all boats not only Natchitoches but the central and north Louisiana area We are hyper-focused on opportunity because I think that there are opportunities out there.” Landy said there are companies around the country and around the world that are looking for investments in the U.S. which aligns with President Donald Trump’s agenda to boost American manufacturing that is being driven primarily by the president’s agenda and we want to be able to capture as much of that as we can You see this great team and we have worked hard and I don’t know anyone who isn’t trying to soften the impact,” he said (KSLA) — Natchitoches police have identified a suspect in a shooting Saturday night (Dec Authorities say 24-year-old Derek Wayne Nash is wanted on a charge of attempted second-degree murder Saturday when Natchitoches police officers and Natchitoches sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a gunshot victim in the 1400 block of Texas Street It’s there that they found one person suffering from two gunshot wounds They immediately began to render aid while other first responders were arriving The victim then was taken to a Rapides Parish hospital where they were treated then released earlier Sunday investigators and officers spoke with several witnesses who reportedly were able to identify Nash as the suspect Authorities urge anyone who sees Nash to call the Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or Detective Davanta Stevenson at (318) 357-3814 “Do not attempt to apprehend or detain this individual by yourself Derek Wayne Nash is considered to be armed and dangerous,” police Sgt all information given shall remain confidential You also can report a tip anonymously by using the P3 Tips app or by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388 And the caller can receive a cash reward up to $3,000 if that information leads to the arrest of an offender By Daffney DawsonPublished: Mar 2025 at 12:53 PM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInNATCHITOCHES (KSLA) - The Natchitoches Parish Council held a special meeting on Monday an ordinance was passed to require gatherings and special events to request a permit from the parish president and similar events that are intended to generate revenue RELATED: 4 Shreveport residents shot during trail ride in Natchitoches Parish The ordinance will apply to gatherings of 50+ people It does not affect non-commercial assemblies like family RELATED: Natchitoches Sheriff’s Office led on chase that ended in fiery crash after trail ride shooting It comes about after four Shreveport residents were shot during a trail ride event in Natchitoches Parish on Saturday got away from the scene before law enforcement could get there The ordinance will be brought to the council on the third Monday of April votes will be cast on the third Monday in May Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInSHREVEPORT (KSLA) - Two employees at IHOP were in an argument that led to violence when one stabbed the other the Natchitoches Police Department responded to the 5000 block of University Parkway at IHOP in reference to an employee being stabbed who was suffering from multiple stab wounds Officers and investigators were able to speak with several witnesses who said that Lawrence Jones and the victim were in an argument while working at the restaurant when Lawrence reportedly stabbed the victim and fled into a wooded area behind the restaurant Officers were able to locate Lawrence Jones and place him under arrest without incident Jones was charged with second-degree battery and was placed in the LaSalle Detention Center Natichtoches The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment and are in stable condition (KSLA) - A 21-year-old man was arrested after officers with the Natchitoches Police Department (NPD) allegedly discovered drugs and a handgun in his vehicle officers with NPD’s Violent Crime Task Force conducted a traffic stop on Lake Street near Sewanee Street they noticed a strong odor of marijuana inside the vehicle Officers asked him to exit the vehicle while they searched it approximately 275 grams of marijuana and $1,260 in cash Demars was arrested for possession of schedule 1 with the intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and was placed in the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center NATCHITOCHES – It was a day to celebrate for more than one reason at the Jack Fisher Tennis Complex as Northwestern State not only honored its seniors but also clinched the Southland Conference regular season title with a gritty 4-3 win over Southeastern on Monday afternoon as Northwestern State not only honored its seniors but also clinched at least a share of the Southland Conference regular season title with a gritty 4-3 win over Southeastern on Monday afternoon "I couldn't be prouder of this group," said head coach Marcos Morelli we committed to fighting for each other and focusing on what we could control Good things came because we earned them."  This championship marks the sixth Southland Conference regular season or tournament title for the Lady Demons in the past 16 years which have come under four different head coaches—Patric Dubois (2010 The Lady Demons (9-6, 8-0) started the day celebrating seniors Ayu Ishibashi and Tjasa Klevisar as early doubles action seized the first point for Northwestern State The pair of Sofi Garcia and Ishibashi continue to dominate this season following a 6-1 match over SLU's Taisia Bolsova and Claudia di Leonardo The Lady Demons clinched the doubles point with a Maria Farina and Klevisar masterclass beating the Lions' Bente Bierma and Panatchakom Suanarsa 6-4 The match between Zoi Spyrou and Honoka Umeda went unfinished with the duo leading 4-3 since the point was already secured 3-6) capitalized on a retirement by Ishibashi to briefly even the score at 1 blanking Bolsova in straight sets with a commanding 6-0 6-0 victory to give the lead back to the Demons Klevisar extended the lead for the Demons after a near-perfect 6-1 Our focus is laser-sharp—only on the opponent directly in front of us," says Klevisar Umeda kept the momentum rolling for the Lady Demons dispatching Southeastern's Di Leonardo 6-4 6-2 to push the Lady Demons across the finish line and securing the team's second conference championship in four seasons "I'm beyond thrilled with what we've accomplished," says Umeda "My commitment remains the same – to continue to get better."  With the match already secured for Northwestern State Farina retired during her singles match against Darder she led 5-3 in the second before being forced to retire In a hard-fought three-set battle at the No "We competed with everything we had today," says Morelli "Their commitment to recovery was exceptional—they put themselves in prime condition for this match and I couldn't be prouder of how they rose to the challenge."  With the regular season title already clinched the Lady Demons will head to Nacogdoches on Saturday for a makeup match against Stephen F Austin — a contest originally postponed earlier in the season the matchup carries final seeding implications as a win secures the outright title for Northwestern State Leana Gomez (SLU) def. Zoi Spyrou (NSU) 7-5 Tjasa Klevisar (NSU) def Honoka Umeda (NSU) def Aitana Darder (SLU) def. Maria Farina (NSU) 2-6 Bente Bierma (SLU) def. Ayu Ishibashi (NSU) 6-1 Sofi Garcia (NSU) def Maria Farina/Tjasa Klevisar (NSU) def Bente Bierma/Panatchakom Suanarsa (SLU) 6-4  Zoi Spyrou/Honoka Umeda (NSU) vs Sofi Garcia/Ayu Ishibashi (NSU) def Taisia Bolsova/Claudia di Leonardo (SLU) 6-1  Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here Firehouse Subs locations across the country will host their Touch the Truck event in honor of International Firef… - It was a day Luke Miller had dreamt of since he was a young boy: being appointed to the U.S - Pretty Special Med Spa is hosting a health and wellness extravaganza as part of its grand reopening - The Bossier Night Market returns Saturday to celebrate Star Wars Day and Cinco De Mayo — Robinson's Rescue is hosting a SSNIP Voucher Day today from 2 to 4 p.m. providing free spay and neuter 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Call getting answers about driving … (KALB)- The closure of International Paper’s Red River Mill in Campti is having a significant impact on Natchitoches Parish including the potential loss of tax revenue for local schools the budget for the 2024-2025 school year was set at $2,832,010 school officials say the school board’s new budget will drop to just $1,135,150 This drastic cut in funding is not enough to support all three schools on the north side of the parish Natchitoches Parish School Superintendent Grant Eloi has warned that tough decisions will need to be made These changes may affect schools like Lakeview High School Goldonna Elementary and Fairview Alpha Elementary The budget shortfall has raised concerns among community members with the possibility of school closures now a real worry (KALB) - Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams and Reba Phelps President of the Natchitoches Parish School Board spoke with KALB about how the closure of the Red River Mill in Campti is affecting local businesses Mayor Williams expressed his disappointment with the closure acknowledging that while the company had to make tough decisions the loss of the mill is a major blow to the area He explained that the closure impacts not only the workers at the mill but also local businesses and the city itself “The closure is affecting merchants on Highway 71 and residents in the city People are concerned about what’s going to happen next,” he said As for the Natchitoches Parish School Board Phelps mentioned that the board faces a loss of $5.7 million which will force them to adjust the school budget “We will need to make budget adjustments to ensure that students continue to receive a good education,” Phelps explained The school board will focus on adjusting the budget based on student enrollment especially in areas most affected by the mill’s closure “We will look at the student count and adjust where necessary to make sure our students are educated properly and equitably,” Phelps added While the closure is expected to impact student enrollment Phelps reassured parents that there will still be a place for their children to be educated The board’s biggest concern is potentially losing students to nearby parishes Both Williams and Phelps acknowledged the emotional toll this situation has taken on families especially since the closure happened suddenly “I can’t imagine what people are going through and it changes lives instantly,” said Mayor Williams NPSB will hold a job fair in March for people who may have lost their jobs due to the mill shutting down We will let you know when we learn more about this event CLICK HERE for more on the closure of the Red River Mill (KALB) - The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested 35 people over the past week: *All persons are innocent until proven guilty (KSLA) - ALL INFROMATION IS PROVIDED BY THE NATCHITOCHES PARISH DA’s OFFICE: Natchitoches Parish District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington announced on Friday March 14 that 10th Judicial District Court Judge Desiree Dyess has ruled on the parole eligibility of convicted murderer Jason Pilcher ensuring he will continue to serve two consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole for the August 1993 murders of Phyllis and Justin Albritton Pilcher was originally convicted of two counts of second-degree murder following a two-week jury trial in 1994 which was prosecuted by then-District Attorney Mike Henry During a hearing held earlier this year in January III of the Natchitoches Parish District Attorney’s Office presented extensive evidence and powerful testimony from the surviving victim and family of the crimes The prosecution also introduced testimony of Pilcher’s prison disciplinary records which revealed a continuing pattern of misconduct and drug use during his incarceration— arguing that further demonstrated his ongoing threat to public safety and lack of rehabilitation Judge Dyess concluded that the crimes and the circumstances surrounding them warranted the continuation of the original sentences without the possibility of parole eligibility Judge Dyess stated she “was hard-pressed to find a worse crime this parish has ever seen.” Judge Dyess noted Pilcher was “totally without remorse and a danger to organized society” and is “irreparably corrupt.” She also noted his “inhumane coldness” during victim testimony at the January hearing Judge Dyess further found he was a “lifelong persistent offender” as evidenced by his continuing misconduct while incarcerated The details of the 1993 murders have left an indelible mark on the Natchitoches Parish community for over three decades approached the Albritton family home in Robeline under the pretense of needing assistance after crashing a stolen vehicle providing a phone and ice water on a sweltering August day Pilcher shot Phyllis Albritton at point-blank range in her doorway He then pursued 11-year-old Justin Albritton who attempted to protect his family with a pellet gun Pilcher subsequently fired upon 13-year-old Amanda Albritton as she fearfully fled across a pasture to seek help and escape the killer The case has withstood numerous legal challenges including appeals to both the Court of Appeal and the Louisiana Supreme Court finding them neither excessive nor unconstitutional particularly given the heinous and unprovoked nature of the crime The ruling today is because of the significant changes in juvenile sentencing law following two landmark decisions by the U.S the Court held that mandatory life sentences without the possibility of parole for juvenile offenders violate the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment the Court extended its ruling in Montgomery v declaring that Miller applies retroactively This opened the door for individuals like Pilcher—who was 15 years old at the time of the Albritton murders—to seek new hearings to determine whether their life sentences should allow the possibility of parole Pilcher was granted a resentencing hearing under these standards to assess whether parole eligibility was warranted based on his age at the time of the offense and other mitigating factors after reviewing the full scope of evidence—including the horrific nature of the crimes the lasting trauma inflicted on the surviving family and Pilcher’s conduct and behavior while incarcerated—the District Court determined that parole is not appropriate and that his life sentences without parole should stand “Today’s ruling upholds the original sentence the Albrittons have been forced to endure the painful reopening of wounds through countless legal proceedings and legislative efforts in order to safeguard the justice that was rightfully secured in 1994 that justice remains intact,” said District Attorney Harrington (KSLA) - Natchitoches police responded to reports of a gunshot victim just before 4 p.m The incident happened in the 800 block of Clarence Drive Officials say 33-year-old D’Mario Moran was found suffering from a single gunshot wound He was taken to the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and alter died from his injuries Witnesses told detectives that they didn’t hear any gunshots or see any shooters If you have any information on the incident Natchitoches Parish School Board voted to close two schools at its meeting Thursday -- Natchitoches Parish School Board members voted Thursday night to close two schools and relocate students as the district faces financial challenges with the impending closure of a major taxpayer and employer but also drew frustration from board members for having to make the difficult decision to close Goldonna Elementary and Natchitoches Junior High School “I’ve always said I wouldn’t vote to close a school but we woke up in a different world when the mill closed," said one board members That mill closure is International Paper Company's containerboard facility in Campti IP unexpectedly announced last month its plan to shut down operations resulting in the loss of more than 500 jobs Millions of dollars in property tax revenue will be lost with the shutdown with that trickling down to all public agencies in the parish as well as other financial impact from the lost jobs Despite some resistance among board members the motion to close the two schools for the 2025-26 school year passed on a roll call vote Some board members still have concerns about the school building's future use with questions about whether the junior high gymnasium should remain open if the structure was deemed unfit for students While air quality reports did not indicate immediate hazards,ongoing monitoring was recommended by the board due to moisture issues Board members also emphasized the importance of preserving the school’s facilities for community use “We need to do our part in maintaining that school and allowing the community an opportunity to use it,” another board member added The board also debated a proposal to relocate sixth-grade students from Fairview Alpha Elementary to Lakeview reconfiguring Fairview Alpha as a Pre-K through fifth-grade school and Lakeview as a sixth- through 12th-grade institution Community members expressed concerns about placing younger students in a high school environment One parent pointed to studies suggesting negative effects of such a transition arguing that Fairview Alpha had enough space to retain its sixth-grade students A representative for Fairview’s principal at the board meeting urged the board to delay the decision until an impact analysis on school performance scores could be conducted Grant Eloi acknowledged that simulations had not yet been performed but assured the board that such data could be available at a later meeting While some board members highlighted potential academic and extracurricular benefits for students others remained concerned about safety and discipline at Lakeview They acknowledged past issues but noted significant improvements in recent years The next school board meeting will include further discussions on the sixth-grade transition as well as updates on the future use of the closed school facilities Board members reiterated the importance of unity in decision-making emphasizing that all changes should prioritize the well-being of students The Natchitoches Parish Journal contributed to this report (KSLA) — A criminal investigation by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office led to the arrest of a Natchitoches Realtor The investigation began after a former client reported alleged fraudulent practices conducted by 39-year-old Rodrick T No details about those practices have been released Detectives searched his residence near Natchitoches on Friday morning (March 7) McIntosh was arrested the same day and booked into the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center on a charge of felony theft and we remain committed to gathering facts and ensuring accountability,” Sheriff Stuart Wright said “This case is entirely independent of other reports circulating on social media.” (KSLA) - Two teens have been arrested in connection to a shooting that happened on Feb [RELATED: Natchitoches Police Department investigating shooting on Saida Street that left one person injured] The shooting happened in the 100 block of Saida Street they found a victim suffering from a gunshot wound the Violent Crimes Task Force and Natchitoches Sheriff’s Office conducted several search warrants they arrested a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old Both juveniles are charged with attempted second-degree murder and have been placed in a facility in Jackson Parish Fentanyl and other drugs seized in Natchitoches Parish Friday From left: Natchitoches Police Chief Nikeo Collins Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright and NPSO Chief Deputy Darrel Winder – The amount of fentanyl seized Friday in drug arrests in Natchitoches Parish is enough to potentially kill around 476,000 people according to the Natchitoches Parish coroner There were six fatalities linked to fentanyl usage in the parish in 2024 with an additional death caused by N-pyrrolidino protonitazene a synthetic opioid with a potency 3 to 70 times greater than fentanyl Four fentanyl-related deaths were reported in 2023 and five in 2022 Although deaths from fentanyl are not always publicized "They've increased in the last several years it was not that many overdoses we were seeing but in the last probably three years is when we started seeing increases in the drug overdose deaths," said Clanton The recent seizure of 2.1 pounds of suspected fentanyl underscores the serious risks posed to residents in Natchitoches Parish and the surrounding area These statistics underscore the ”persistent and deadly presence of fentanyl in the community,” he said All these places probably have it in a lot higher quantities," he said "I wish everybody had Narcan in their first aid kit if you started suddenly experiencing problems Two people were arrested Friday connected to the fentanyl seizure: Charles McCray Both were charged with multiple drug-related offenses including possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute McCray and Rainey also are convicted felons They were booked into the LaSalle Detention Center in Natchitoches where they are awaiting bond which resulted from a months-long investigation into illegal narcotics sales followed a search at a house in the 100 block of John Drive in the Payne Subdivision near Natchitoches The drugs have a potential street value of about $52,000 Roberts said the NPSO Drug Enforcement Unit is committed to targeting individuals responsible for the distribution of dangerous substances in the parish Sheriff Wright commended his deputies and all agencies involved in “investigating and arresting these individuals distributing illegal narcotics including the dangerous narcotic fentanyl in Natchitoches Parish.” The investigation remains active and ongoing 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine a lethal dose for most people is around 2 milligrams — about the size of a few grains of salt • Adulteration: Illegally produced fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs such as cocaine or pressed into counterfeit pills mimicking OxyContin • Contamination risk: Drug dealers frequently mix fentanyl with other substances due to its potency and low cost DEA lab tests found that 5 out of 10 pills tested contained a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl with 42% of tested pills having at least 2 milligrams • Distribution: Fentanyl is typically trafficked by the kilogram with a single kilogram having the potential to kill 500,000 people • Uncertainty: Individuals can unknowingly consume fentanyl-laced pills or take them knowing they contain fentanyl but without knowing the lethal dose • Pill precaution: Do not take any pills not prescribed to you and obtained from a pharmacy • Suspicious substances: Report any suspicious substances to law enforcement for investigation • Report possession: Inform authorities if you know someone in possession of illegal substances—it could save lives by getting them the help they need • Report dealers: If you know someone dealing drugs • Naloxone: Narcan or Naloxone is the reversal agent for fentanyl It is now widely available and can be purchased over the counter If you suspect an overdose Call 911 and administer Narcan if available LAKE CHARLES — Zachary rallied twice from early deficits in the first half of a state semifinal Thursday they left no doubt about deserving a chance to play for a state title A long scoring run over the second and third quarters helped top-seeded Zachary move ahead of No 4 Natchitoches Central in a 65-45 drubbing in an LHSAA Division I nonselect state semifinal at Burton Coliseum The Broncos went form seven points down in the second quarter and led by nine after a 22-6 scoring run that put them up 40-31 midway through the third The Zachary lead widened in the fourth quarter — enough so that coach Jonathan McClinton could clear his bench with his team leading by 25 points at the 1:31 mark The two leading scorers for Zachary (27-6) got most of their points after the break Senior Xavier Ferguson scored 10 of his 18 points after halftime and junior Kriston Brooks scored all but two of his 16 points in the second half Brooks made the two free throws that put Zachary ahead for good in the third quarter Sophomore Ian Edmond (13 points) quickly intercepted a pass at midcourt and scored on a layup to keep the run going 2 Central of Baton Rouge in the state final set for 8 p.m Saturday — a rematch from when Central won a 4-5A district game in the final week of the regular season The Natchitoches Central scoring duo of senior Jaden Braden and junior Ja’Dell Demery challenged Zachary by scoring 23 points in the first half but managed to score only 11 after the break The teams were tied four times in the first quarter Sophomore guard Jay’sen Prelow made a 3-pointer at the first-quarter buzzer that put Natchitoches Central ahead 17-14 Natchitoches Central (25-6) led by seven points in the second quarter Zachary closed the half with a 10-2 run that put the Broncos ahead 28-27 Sophomore Demarius Collins scored on a put-back off his missed 3-pointer for the one-point lead with about a minute to play in the half Zachary previously won state titles in 2021 and 2022 Natchitoches Central was a state runner-up last season Contact Christopher Dabe at cdabe@theadvocate.com Email notifications are only sent once a day News Tips:newstips@theadvocate.com Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com