Baton Rouge Sees Rise in Fatal Shootings Along Interstate

BATON ROUGE, La. – On Sunday evening, another fatal shooting occurred on Interstate 110, marking a troubling trend in Baton Rouge. The shooting, which took place near the Wyandotte exit, resulted in the death of 22-year-old Kimble Evans, according to the East Baton Rouge Coroner’s Office. This incident counts as the fifth fatal shooting on this stretch of highway within a year.

In November, Baton Rouge Police Lt. L’Jean McKneely raised alarms about the increasing number of shootings on the interstate. “There has been definitely an increase in interstate shootings. What we believe is that those persons that are committing these crimes feel that they can do that type of crime and get away with it because they are rolling when the crime occurs,” he said.

The sudden uptick in violence has raised questions about safety for motorists traveling this busy corridor. The circumstances surrounding Evans’ shooting remain unclear; investigators are still determining whether he was a target or caught in random crossfire.

To enhance safety and assist in investigations, the Page-Rice Camera Initiative had previously funded two license plate readers to be installed along the interstate. However, those cameras have yet to be set up as they await final approval from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD).

“We do have a memorandum of understanding with the State Police that has been in place. We have those cameras in multiple locations along the interstate as it is. Subject to the installation by whatever entity is requesting them, there is an ongoing process,” Secretary Joe Donahue stated when asked about the status of the installation.

Clay Young of the Page-Rice Camera Initiative noted that over $200,000 has been raised for camera installations along I-110, I-10, and I-12. Despite the funds collected, the actual installation remains under the control of state authorities. As of now, no timeline has been provided for when these safety measures will be enacted.

In addition to this shooting incident, earlier reports on Monday confirmed that one person was killed in a separate shooting in the 1700 block of North 23rd Street at approximately 6 p.m. The Baton Rouge Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding that case.

The rise in violent incidents on Baton Rouge roads has left residents concerned about their safety while driving, prompting calls for more surveillance and police intervention.