Kayelyn Ford, 22, Fatally Shot by Ex-Boyfriend Brandon Bell Moments After Deputies Depart Her Baton Rouge Apartment — Tragedy Highlights Systemic Failures in Domestic Violence Response

EAST BATON ROUGE, La. — In a harrowing incident that underscores the persistent challenges in addressing domestic violence, 22-year-old Kayelyn Ford was tragically shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend, 24-year-old Brandon Bell, shortly after sheriff’s deputies left her residence early Monday morning. The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the fatal shooting occurred around 3:15 a.m. on May 19, 2025, outside Ford’s apartment in the 9800 block of Hooper Road.

Sequence of Events Leading to the Tragedy

Prior to the shooting, Ford had placed a distress call to law enforcement at approximately 3:00 a.m., reporting that Bell was attempting to enter her apartment using an old key. Deputies responded promptly, searched the premises, and, finding no immediate threat or sign of Bell, left the scene. Tragically, moments after their departure, Bell allegedly emerged from a concealed position and ambushed Ford, fatally shooting her outside the residence. Following the shooting, Bell reportedly turned the gun on himself. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and, as per the latest updates, is not expected to survive.

Background and Legal Context

Court records reveal that Bell had a documented history of domestic violence. In April, he was arrested and charged with domestic abuse battery. An affidavit filed by a Baton Rouge Police Department officer at the time indicated that Bell became violent during an argument after being asked to leave an apartment. The victim, whose identity was not disclosed in the affidavit, reported that Bell initiated the physical altercation. Subsequently, Bell was granted a $1,000 bond, and a protective order was issued, barring him from coming within 100 yards of Ford.