Lake Charles, Louisiana – A man was fatally shot by police in Lake Charles on July 3, 2025, following a series of confrontations that began when a 911 caller reported a gunman threatening traffic on 12th Street. According to Lake Charles Police Chief Shawn Caldwell, the situation escalated shortly after 7:40 a.m., when a driver reported a man pointing a gun at vehicles and allegedly aiming at her.

When the first Lake Charles Police Department (LCPD) officer arrived, the suspect fired multiple shots at her as she exited her vehicle. The officer returned fire, prompting the suspect to flee deeper into a nearby neighborhood, where he continued firing at a second arriving officer. Officers quickly established a perimeter while the man attempted to hide from law enforcement.

A resident informed police that the individual was hiding in a shed. The suspect then emerged and ran toward SWAT officers, firing rounds at them. Officers returned fire, and the man was struck. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

No officers were injured during the incident. In accordance with protocol, six LCPD officers have been placed on administrative leave while an internal investigation is conducted. The Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division was called in shortly after 8:00 a.m. and has taken over the case, processing the scene near the intersection of 12th Street and 7th Avenue and gathering additional information as part of an active investigation.

Authorities are requesting that anyone with information, photos, or video from the scene come forward. The public can submit tips anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline.

This incident remains under investigation.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.