A daylight drive-by shooting in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, took the life of 17-year-old Marvin Wells on July 20, 2025. Wells was walking with another 17-year-old when a car approached and occupants opened fire around midday; a 59-year-old man on a nearby porch was also struck. All three were taken to North Oaks Medical Center, and Marvin Wells later died. The other two victims were treated and released in stable condition.

Investigators say the shooting was planned and targeted: witnesses reported seeing a black Cadillac in the area in prior weeks, and law enforcement recovered a car and a firearm believed to have been used. Three teenagers — 19-year-old Julius Troyvon Glass Jr., 18-year-old Kera Wolbers, and 16-year-old Ray Delmer Carter — were arrested and booked on charges including first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. A 50-year-old, Dorris Carter, was arrested on accessory after the fact and failure to report charges for allegedly helping the suspects hide.

Several of the accused and the victims reportedly had personal ties and grew up in the same community, deepening the family’s loss and the town’s shock. If anyone knew Marvin Wells or has information about the shooting, please share what you know.