A late-night shooting in Tallulah, Louisiana, ended the life of 24-year-old John Ward Jr. of Texas on September 8, 2024. The shooting occurred at about 1:50 a.m. in the 200 block of Thomas Street. The Madison Parish Sheriff’s Office responded and asked the Louisiana State Police to lead the homicide investigation.

Detectives identified several people believed to be involved and within days arrests were announced. On September 13, 2024, Javion Nelson, 21, of Delhi, was charged with second-degree murder and obstruction of justice. Three Tallulah residents were also arrested: Gerald Albert, 26, charged with illegal carrying and discharge of a weapon and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; Ta’Niqua Brazil, 33, charged with obstruction of justice, aggravated second-degree battery, and false swearing; and Deontay Willmore, 39, charged with obstruction of justice. All four were booked into the Madison Parish Detention Center as the investigation continued.

If anyone was in the 200 block of Thomas Street that night or has information about what led to Ward’s death, please share what is known.