Sulphur, Louisiana – A shooting incident in Sulphur, Louisiana, has left a 22-year-old man dead and two others facing charges. On Friday, December 6, deputies from the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) responded to a 911 call at approximately 11:30 p.m. regarding a shooting at a residence on Michael Lane.
Upon arrival, deputies found Gavin Demeritt, 22, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite lifesaving efforts, Demeritt was pronounced dead by emergency medical personnel shortly after.
According to detectives, Demeritt was handling a revolver in a joking manner before handing it over to a 16-year-old juvenile, who continued to handle the firearm carelessly. The juvenile, believing the gun was unloaded, allegedly pulled the trigger, discharging the firearm and striking Demeritt.
Following the shooting, Gage McMichael, 20, a resident of the home, allegedly attempted to conceal evidence by hiding two firearms, including the one involved in the shooting, in an outdoor shed. McMichael also removed a casing from the scene.
The juvenile, whose name has not been released due to their age, was arrested and charged with negligent homicide and possession of a firearm by a juvenile. They were booked into the Juvenile Detention Center.
McMichael was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice. He was booked into the Calcasieu Correction Center, with his bond pending.
CPSO Detectives Alex Zaunbrecher and Willie Fontenot are leading the investigation into the shooting.
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.