Shreveport la, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Shreveport is grappling with a notable spike in homicides, with 14 reported in a recent span. Authorities are particularly concerned about four unsolved cases, including that of 19-year-old Edgar Villa, who was shot in Ford Park. The police have called for witnesses and video footage to assist in solving these cases, highlighting fears of retaliation as a barrier to community cooperation. Despite the recent rise, annual homicide rates have gradually decreased over the past few years. Community fundraising events are also being planned to support Crime Stoppers.
Shreveport Police Seek Witnesses and Video Footage as Homicides Surge in Ford Park
Shreveport is facing a concerning rise in homicides, with a total of 14 occurring between late May and late July 2025. During this troubling period, four of these cases remain unsolved, marking a decrease from six unsolved cases reported two weeks ago.
Among the unsolved homicides is the case of 19-year-old Edgar Villa, who was tragically shot during a shootout at Ford Park on June 22. This incident took place in front of an estimated crowd of over 100 people, yet the Shreveport Police Department has received no credible witness accounts to aid in their investigation. This lack of community cooperation has left law enforcement frustrated and imploring anyone with information to come forward.
The Executive Director of Caddo-Shreveport Crime Stoppers noted that the fear of retaliation may deter witnesses from providing vital information. Crime Stoppers typically receives between 200 and 300 tips each month; however, many of these tips lack crucial evidence needed for thorough investigations. Obtaining video footage from bystanders might prove essential in resolving the unsolved homicides, according to Crime Stoppers.
Despite the current spike in homicides, data from the Shreveport Police Department indicates that the annual number of homicides has generally decreased over recent years, dropping from 80 in 2023 to 52 in 2024, and 28 as of August 24, 2025.
Other unsolved cases from the recent surge include:
- Kevin Ester, 15, shot on May 28 during a gunfight.
- Floyd Scroggins, 64, shot while walking near Shreveport Regional Airport.
- Sherita Layton, 38, shot outside the Session Levingston Motel on Pete Harris Drive.
Additionally, police have recently added another victim, Cameron Ballentine, 17, who was shot in the Martin Luther King neighborhood.
Shreveport Police have reported making arrests in connection with two additional homicides during the spike. They are also investigating a number of other incidents, including a homicide that occurred on June 29 and another shooting and robbery that took place in January at a Walgreens. Community efforts are currently in motion to install surveillance cameras around Ford Park as part of a strategy to enhance safety in the area.
Caddo-Shreveport Crime Stoppers has been facing funding challenges, receiving only $2 per court fee, which limits their ability to incentivize tips effectively. They are planning fundraising events, such as “Burgers for the Badge,” to support their initiatives in solving crimes and encouraging community participation.
As the investigation progresses, police officials continue to encourage community members and witnesses to come forward with any information that could aid in solving these unsolved homicides and increase public safety.
FAQ
- What is the recent trend in homicides in Shreveport?
Shreveport has experienced a rise in homicides, with 14 occurring between late May and late July 2025. - How many homicide cases remain unsolved?
Four homicide cases from this period remain unsolved. - What happened to Edgar Villa?
Edgar Villa, 19, was shot during a shootout at Ford Park on June 22, 2025. His case remains unsolved. - What challenges are police facing in solving these cases?
Lack of community cooperation and fear among witnesses are significant obstacles to solving the cases. - How can community members help?
Community members are urged to come forward with any information or video footage that could assist police investigations. - What financial challenges does Crime Stoppers face?
Crime Stoppers is struggling with funding limitations, receiving only $2 per court fee, which limits their ability to incentivize tips.
Key Features of Recent Homicides in Shreveport
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Homicides (May – July 2025) | 14 |
| Unsolved Homicides | 4 |
| Notable Victims | Edgar Villa, Kevin Ester, Floyd Scroggins, Sherita Layton, Cameron Ballentine |
| Annual Homicide Statistics | 80 (2023), 52 (2024), 28 (as of August 2025) |
| Funding for Crime Stoppers | $2 per court fee |
| Upcoming Fundraising Event | Burgers for the Badge |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Summer Homicides Unsolved
- Wikipedia: Homicide
- Victim Killed Shooting Near Ford Park Identified
- Google Search: Shreveport homicides
- Shreveport Teen Shot in Critical Condition
- Google Scholar: Shreveport homicide cases
- Ford Park Shooting Leaves Man in Life-Threatening Condition
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Homicide
- Ford Park Crime Cameras
- Google News: Shreveport Crime Stoppers
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.
