October 9, 2025

Tragic Shooting Marred National Night Out in Shreveport

Shreveport, October 9, 2025

News Summary

A tragic shooting at AB Palmer Park during National Night Out led to the death of an 18-year-old. The police are investigating it as a targeted homicide. This incident overshadowed the event, which promotes community spirit and crime prevention. Local officials expressed their sorrow over the violence and emphasized the need for resilience and change in the community.

Shreveport

A tragic shooting during an unofficial National Night Out event at AB Palmer Park on October 7 has led to the death of an 18-year-old male. The Shreveport Police Department reported that the shooting, dispatched at 7:19 p.m., is being investigated as a homicide and is believed to be a targeted attack. This incident casts a shadow over what is meant to be a celebration of community and collaboration between law enforcement and residents.

National Night Out 2024 is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, October 7, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Law enforcement agencies in the ArkLaTex region organize block parties across various communities to commemorate this nationwide event aimed at promoting crime and drug prevention awareness. Local events are designed to strengthen neighborhood spirit and improve partnerships between police and community members.

The Shreveport Police Department made arrangements for a kickoff party that commenced at 4:30 p.m. in the 700 block of Texas Street, where families gathered for a lively evening filled with activities. The main event, the Neon Nights on Texas Street block party, ran from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring a live DJ, food trucks, games, and family-friendly activities.

Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington extended an invitation to residents to participate in National Night Out events from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with multiple community block parties planned in Bossier Parish, including Bossier City, Benton, Haughton, and Plain Dealing. Similarly, Texarkana organized a city-wide gathering at Front Street Plaza alongside various local block parties, offering interactive displays and safety information from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. In Marshall, Texas, the celebration is set to occur at the Marshall Convention Center from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., showcasing police and fire vehicles and equipment, all aimed at reinforcing crime prevention strategies and building stronger community relationships.

Despite the ongoing celebration of community and connection highlighted by DDA Director Cedric B. Glover, the shooting incident at AB Palmer Park affected the mood of the evening. Mayor Tom Arceneaux expressed his sorrow regarding the violence that marred a night intended for unity. Meanwhile, Councilman Alan Jackson conveyed his condolences, emphasizing the importance of community resilience and the need for change. Senator Thomas Pressly labeled the incident disheartening and reiterated support for additional law enforcement resources to tackle violence in the community.

As National Night Out aims to create more awareness around crime prevention and enhance community bonds, local law enforcement hopes to continue fostering a spirit of collaboration among residents despite the recent tragedy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is National Night Out?

National Night Out is aimed at promoting crime and drug prevention awareness, supporting local anti-crime efforts, strengthening neighborhood spirit, and improving police-community partnerships.

When is National Night Out 2024 scheduled in Shreveport?

National Night Out 2024 is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

What activities are included in the Shreveport National Night Out events?

The Neon Nights on Texas Street block party will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and feature a live DJ, food, games, and family-friendly activities.

What happened during the National Night Out event in Shreveport?

A shooting occurred at AB Palmer Park during an unofficial National Night Out event, leading to the death of an 18-year-old male. The Shreveport Police Department is investigating the shooting as a homicide.

What statements have local officials made regarding the shooting?

Mayor Tom Arceneaux expressed sorrow over the violence during a night meant for unity, while Councilman Alan Jackson emphasized the need for community resilience and change. Senator Thomas Pressly called the incident disheartening and supported additional law enforcement resources.

Key Features of National Night Out

Feature	Details
Date	October 7, 2024
Location	Shreveport, Louisiana
Main Event	Neon Nights on Texas Street
Time of Main Event	5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Purpose	Promote crime and drug prevention awareness