Third Suspect Arrested in Louisiana in Investigation of Shooting at a Bar Where 12 People Were Injured by Gunfire

Baton Rouge, Louisiana – A third suspect has been arrested in Louisiana in connection with the investigation into a shooting at a bar where 12 people were injured by gunfire.

The Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) confirmed on May 10, 2023, that they had apprehended another suspect, Shawnchez Lemar, 22, for his suspected involvement in the Bennington Ave shooting on January 22, 2023.

According to reports, Lemar was arrested and put into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on 12 counts of Attempted First Degree Murder.

Earlier in the day, on February 10, 2023, Baton Rouge Police Homicide Investigators were aided by St. James Parish Sheriff Department Detectives and Deputies in carrying out various search warrants in St. James Parish. Nikeal Franklin, 19, and Jy’shaun Jackson, 19, were arrested as a consequence of their alleged involvement in the shooting on January 21, 2023, at a home in the 4600 block of Bennington Avenue.

Franklin was arrested and booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on 12 counts of Attempted First Degree Murder. Jackson was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on 12 counts of attempted first-degree murder.

This investigation stems from an incident in Baton Rouge when 12 people were injured by gunfire inside the Dior Bar and Lounge on Bennington Avenue on January 22, 2023.

According to BRPD, this is an ongoing investigation.

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.