Shreveport, LA, August 23, 2025
News Summary
The Shreveport Police Department has initiated homicide investigations following two fatal hit-and-run incidents that occurred months apart. The police have arrested suspects connected to both cases, raising community concerns about safety. Investigations revealed that the deaths of Rosalind Jordan and Blake Tannen might be homicides, rather than accidents. Police encourage the public to provide any relevant information to help with the ongoing investigations.
Shreveport – The Shreveport Police Department has launched homicide investigations into two fatal hit-and-run incidents that occurred in late June and mid-August, resulting in the arrests of suspects linked to both cases. The increasing violence and tragic loss of life have raised concerns within the community about safety and accountability.
Details of the Incidents
On June 28, officers initially believed a traffic accident involving 70-year-old Rosalind Jordan to be a hit-and-run. However, further investigations revealed her death was likely a homicide. Jordan’s body was discovered in a vacant parking lot on Laurel Street with visible traumatic injuries.
Following an extensive investigation, authorities identified Anthony Edwards, an acquaintance of the victim, as the primary suspect. Edwards was arrested on July 7 in Claiborne Parish and now faces a charge of second-degree murder. Chief Wayne Smith described this case as a tragic reminder of how swiftly lives can be impacted by senseless violence.
In a separate incident on August 16, the police responded to another fatal hit-and-run in the 300 block of Hearne Avenue. The victim, identified as Blake Tannen, was struck while walking on the side of the road. Emergency responders found Tannen’s body in the grass beside the roadway; unfortunately, he could not be revived at the scene.
Authorities arrested Leavern Johnson, a 29-year-old man, in connection with Tannen’s death. He faces charges of felony hit-and-run and felony obstruction. Initial witness reports indicated that Tannen was walking south on the street when he was struck by a vehicle that then fled the scene. Investigators were able to gather evidence and conduct interviews with witnesses, leading to Johnson’s arrest within days of the incident.
Public Call for Information
Community Impact
Background Context
Hit-and-run accidents have been an ongoing issue in urban areas, highlighting the need for increased awareness and responsibility among drivers. The fatalities of Jordan and Tannen illustrate the potential consequences of reckless driving behaviors, urging law enforcement and community leaders to address these challenges proactively.
Conclusion
FAQ
What led to the investigation of the two hit-and-runs as homicides?
The initial investigations into both hit-and-runs revealed evidence suggesting that the deaths were intentional rather than accidental, prompting the police to classify them as homicides.
Who were the victims in these incidents?
The victims identified in the incidents are 70-year-old Rosalind Jordan, who was found deceased on June 28, and Blake Tannen, who was fatally struck on August 16.
What charges were filed against the suspects?
Anthony Edwards is facing charges of second-degree murder in the case of Rosalind Jordan, while Leavern Johnson faces charges of felony hit-and-run and felony obstruction related to Blake Tannen’s death.
Are there any calls for public assistance in these cases?
Yes, the Shreveport Police Department is actively seeking information from the public regarding both cases. They encourage anyone with details to contact them or Crime Stoppers.
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Additional Resources
- KSLA News: Elderly Shreveport Woman Killed in Hit-and-Run
- Wikipedia: Hit-and-run
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Arrest in Fatal Hit-and-Run
- Google Search: Shreveport hit-and-run
- KTBS: Arrest in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case
- Google Scholar: hit-and-run incidents Shreveport
- KTAL News: Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Shreveport
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hit-and-run accident
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
