A teenager walked into a Baton Rouge police precinct last week, accompanied by his mother, and turned himself in for the fatal shooting of La’Tasha Thomas, a 58-year-old mother and grandmother. The juvenile, reportedly just 14 years old, is facing charges of second-degree murder and illegal use of a weapon after allegedly attempting to carjack Thomas and shooting her multiple times. Prosecutors have yet to confirm whether they will seek to try him as an adult.
Thomas was standing near the corner of Plank Road and Wyandotte Street on the morning of January 19 when the violent encounter occurred, police said. Authorities described the act as senseless and unprovoked. She died from her injuries just a day before her birthday, leaving her family grappling with shock and devastation.
In a statement, Thomas’ family expressed their grief, describing her as a “down-to-earth” woman who loved cooking, crafting, and spending time with loved ones. “To see her life taken in such a violent way is something we cannot come to terms with,” said her daughter, Beyonce Thomas, in a GoFundMe post created to help cover funeral expenses. The campaign has raised more than $3,000 so far.
The incident has left Baton Rouge shaken, underscoring the ongoing issue of gun violence and the role of juveniles in such crimes. Local authorities are continuing their investigation while community members express concern about rising violence involving minors. Police have not disclosed any further details about the suspect’s background or possible motives beyond the attempted carjacking.
As the family prepares for Thomas’ final farewell, her daughter expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us care for her,” she wrote. But for those mourning Thomas, the pain of her loss is compounded by lingering questions about how such a tragedy could occur—and what could have prevented it.
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