Man Shot Dead After Altercation in Crowley; Police Search for Suspect in Fatal Shooting

Man Shot Dead After Altercation in Crowley; Police Search for Suspect in Fatal Shooting

In a shocking and tragic incident, a fatal shooting occurred on Friday evening, October 18th, in the typically quiet city of Crowley, Louisiana. The event, which took place in the 600 block of Dejean Circle, has left the local community reeling as police work tirelessly to apprehend the suspect involved in the violent crime. 

The victim, 41-year-old Travis Trentel Thorne, was discovered lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the best efforts of emergency medical responders who rushed to the scene, Thorne succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after. According to authorities, Crowley police officers arrived at the scene around 9:30 PM, after receiving calls reporting the shooting. 

Witnesses reported that the fatal encounter followed a heated physical altercation between Thorne and 30-year-old Johnus Lambert. What began as a fistfight quickly escalated into gun violence, with Lambert allegedly pulling a firearm and shooting Thorne multiple times before fleeing the scene. Lambert then reportedly left the area in a silver 2011 Nissan Maxima, prompting law enforcement to issue a public appeal for assistance in locating him.

As of now, Johnus Lambert remains at large, and authorities are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. The Crowley Police Department has requested that individuals contact them directly at (337) 783-1234 with any tips or information that could lead to Lambert’s arrest. The police have emphasized that anonymity can be guaranteed for those who may fear retaliation for coming forward.

It’s important to note that this tragic shooting is not related to the International Rice Festival, an annual celebration that is currently being held in another part of Crowley. The festival, a long-standing tradition in the town that celebrates the rice industry’s significance to the region, draws large crowds each year. Fortunately, festival-goers were not impacted by the incident, and police have assured the public that safety measures for the event remain in place.

The investigation is ongoing, and local authorities are working closely with surrounding law enforcement agencies in the search for Johnus Lambert. Police are also exploring the background of the altercation between Thorne and Lambert, as they seek to understand what led to the fatal confrontation. 

Thorne’s death marks another grim moment for a community that, like many across the country, is grappling with the ripple effects of gun violence. Local residents have expressed their shock and sorrow, as the shooting has disrupted the peace in what is otherwise a family-friendly and close-knit neighborhood. Thorne’s family and friends are mourning his untimely death, and while the investigation continues, many are calling for justice to be served swiftly.

As more details unfold, the community waits with bated breath for updates from the authorities. In the meantime, anyone with knowledge of Lambert’s movements is strongly encouraged to reach out to law enforcement to prevent further potential danger. Crowley Police Chief Jimmy Broussard has assured the public that capturing the suspect is a top priority and that every resource is being deployed to bring Lambert into custody.

In a broader sense, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of violence in even the most peaceful communities. Crowley, like many small cities in America, is not immune to such tragedies. The community's response will likely involve more discussions about public safety, law enforcement presence, and how to prevent future escalations that could result in such a devastating loss of life.

For now, the Crowley Police Department remains focused on finding Lambert and providing some closure to the family and friends of Travis Trentel Thorne, whose life was taken too soon.