Lake Charles, Louisiana – A 66-year-old woman was found dead in her Lake Charles, Louisiana home on December 2, after being struck by a stray bullet from a shooting incident the previous day. According to the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call on Tom Hebert Road in Lake Charles at approximately 9:00 p.m. on December 2, where they discovered the body of Cristina Lobato.
The investigation revealed that Lobato was struck by a projectile from a shooting incident on December 1, which occurred in the same trailer park. Initially, deputies were told by 20-year-old Obking Provost of Lake Charles, Louisiana that he was shot while walking in the neighborhood. However, further investigation revealed that Provost, a convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing a firearm, had actually discharged a gun, injuring himself.
The projectile from the discharge allegedly entered Lobato’s residence, striking and killing her. Provost was arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center on December 2, facing charges of obstruction of justice, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, manslaughter, and illegal discharge of a firearm. His bond is pending.
The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation and is working to identify others who may have been involved in the incident. Detectives are also exploring the possibility that Provost may have received assistance from others, and additional arrests are possible.
The public is encouraged to come forward with any information related to the case. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office app, which is available for download from the App Store and Google Play by searching “Calcasieu Parish Sheriff, LA” or by calling the sheriff’s office directly at 337-491-3605.
CPSO Detective Shane Broussard is leading the investigation into the incident.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.