Chief A. Perry Thomas

Ville Platte Police Department

114 Armand St. Office #2, Ville Platte, LA 70586

(337) 363-1316 / Fax (337) 363-0351

*******Press Release*******

Date: October 22, 2024

Subject: Shootings on VPHS Homecoming Night

Chief A. Perry Thomas reports that on Friday, October 18, 2024, a call of shots fired was made during the Ville Platte High School football game. Arrested was Lawrence Pitre (21), and a handgun was seized. Also arrested was a juvenile (16) for illegal possession of a firearm.

A few hours later, at approximately 12:11 a.m., another call of shots fired was placed at 735 S. Chataignier Street. There were two victims: a juvenile with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to his left arm, and a 19-year-old male victim who sustained a gunshot wound to his face. The 19-year-old is currently in critical but stable condition.

This investigation is ongoing. Chief Thomas asks if anyone has information about these crimes to please call the Ville Platte Police Department at 337-363-1313.

All calls will remain anonymous, and all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.