Patricia Alston Stephens, 75, was fatally shot at her Prairieville, Louisiana residence on Highway 42 on March 30, 2022. Ascension Parish deputies responded and the investigation led to the arrest of her husband, 83-year-old Marvin Stephens, who was booked on charges of second-degree murder and illegal use of a weapon.

Neighbors described the couple as quiet and mostly keeping to themselves. Family and neighbors reported that Marvin Stephens had been diagnosed with dementia and had been showing unusual behavior; a district attorney said a mental competency evaluation would be required before proceeding to trial. Marvin Stephens was released on an $85,000 bond after his arrest.

The shooting ended a 45-year marriage and left the community reeling. If anyone knew Patricia or saw anything relevant around Highway 42 on March 30, 2022, please share information with investigators.