Mother of Two Gunned Down in Tragic Case of Mistaken Identity on MLK Drive


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In the heart of Shreveport, Louisiana, a vibrant community was shaken to its core on the night of August 18, 2025, when a senseless act of violence claimed the life of 28-year-old Labriesha Patterson, a beloved mother of two. The fatal shooting, which unfolded around 10:30 p.m. in the 1600 block of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, has left residents grieving and local leaders calling for unity in the face of rising crime. Swift action by the Shreveport Police Department led to the arrest of three teenagers, now facing charges in connection with this heartbreaking tragedy.

The incident began under the cover of night, as Patterson and another individual were driving eastbound along MLK Drive. Without warning, a black car carrying three passengers pulled alongside their vehicle. In a chilling moment, gunfire erupted, shattering the quiet of the evening. Bullets tore through Patterson’s car, leaving both occupants injured. The chaos escalated as both vehicles lost control and crashed, their metal frames crumpling under the weight of the violent encounter. The suspects, undeterred, fled into a nearby wooded area, disappearing into the darkness as police descended on the scene.

Officers arrived to a grim tableau: a wrecked car with two victims inside, one fighting for her life. Labriesha Patterson was rushed to Ochsner LSU Health hospital, where medical staff battled to save her. Tragically, at 11:07 p.m., she was pronounced dead, her life cut short by an act of violence that authorities say was never meant for her. The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity, and the weight of her loss began to ripple through the community.

Investigators worked tirelessly through the night, piecing together the events that led to this devastating outcome. According to Shreveport Police Department spokesperson Cpl. Chris Bordelon, the suspects were targeting another individual driving a similar vehicle. Patterson, an innocent bystander, was caught in the crossfire of a deadly mistake. “This woman had absolutely nothing to do with this,” Bordelon said, his words underscoring the senselessness of the crime.

By Tuesday, August 19, the relentless efforts of Shreveport’s investigators and specialized units bore fruit. Using a combination of witness statements, evidence analysis, and advanced technology, police tracked down and apprehended three suspects: Deceldrion Gay, 19; Tywann Gipson, 17; and Rodney Thomas Jr., 19. Each now faces charges of second-degree murder, a stark reminder that justice is being sought for the life so brutally taken. The suspects’ swift capture was a testament to the department’s commitment to protecting the city and holding perpetrators accountable.

Labriesha Patterson was more than a statistic—she was a woman whose presence lit up every room. Her mother, Yolanda Patterson, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing her daughter as “small but mighty” with a smile that could brighten the darkest day. “Everyone loved her, and she loved everyone,” Yolanda wrote, her words painting a picture of a woman whose warmth and kindness touched countless lives. Tragically, the day of her death coincided with her son’s birthday, compounding the family’s grief. A relative revealed that Labriesha was the third family member to fall victim to gun violence in Shreveport, a sobering reminder of the city’s ongoing struggle with such tragedies.

This shooting marks Shreveport’s 24th homicide of 2025, a number that weighs heavily on a community striving for peace. Just weeks earlier, another innocent life—a teenage girl—was taken in a north Shreveport vape shop when bullets from a parking lot gunfight tore through the store. The parallels are haunting, and the pain is palpable.

In the wake of this loss, Shreveport’s leaders have issued a powerful call to action. City Council Chairwoman Tabatha Taylor stood before the community on Tuesday afternoon, her voice resolute yet filled with compassion. “We have made great strides in combating crime because of the community and technology,” she declared. “If you know who is responsible, say something because we do not need to remain silent. Turning people in is not betrayal—it is an act of love and protection for our families. This is our city, our children, and our future. We must stand up together.” Her words were a rallying cry, urging residents to break the cycle of silence that too often shields perpetrators.

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith echoed her sentiments, condemning the shooting as “a cowardly act” that robbed an innocent woman of her life. He praised the dedication of his team, whose rapid response ensured the suspects were brought into custody. “We will hold those responsible accountable,” Smith vowed, his words carrying the weight of a promise to a grieving city.

As the investigation continues, Shreveport stands at a crossroads. The loss of Labriesha Patterson is a wound felt deeply, but it is also a catalyst for change. The community is called to unite—neighbors, leaders, and law enforcement standing shoulder to shoulder—to reclaim their streets and protect their future. In the face of tragedy, Shreveport’s resilience shines through, a beacon of hope amidst the sorrow. For Labriesha, for her two young sons, and for every life touched by violence, the fight for justice and peace presses on.

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