Deadly Interstate Shooting Claims Two Lives: Ascension Parish Authorities Arrest Two Suspects

ASCENSION PARISH, LA — A devastating act of gun violence on a Louisiana interstate has left two families mourning the loss of young lives, and a community reeling from the senseless tragedy. Detectives with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit have arrested two suspects—Jakiryn Johnson, 19, and Kavis Octave Jr., 17—in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred on the interstate and resulted in multiple victims.

According to officials, the shooting erupted on the roadway in a terrifying and chaotic scene that investigators now believe was a targeted attack. Two young men from Donaldsonville were fatally wounded in the incident: Dantrell Gibbs, 20, who succumbed to his injuries shortly after the shooting, and Jermaine “Trey” James, 18, who also died as a result of gunshot wounds sustained during the ordeal.

Authorities say the suspects opened fire on a vehicle carrying the victims, triggering a dangerous situation for innocent commuters. The violence not only took lives but endangered others on the interstate, underscoring the growing concern over the brazenness of such crimes.

After an intensive investigation, detectives identified Johnson and Octave as the alleged shooters. Both have been taken into custody and are facing serious charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and illegal use of weapons. Law enforcement officials credit witness accounts, surveillance footage, and cooperation between multiple agencies in helping to swiftly identify and arrest the suspects.

Sheriff Bobby Webre addressed the public, saying, “This was a horrifying and heartbreaking case. These young men had their entire lives ahead of them, and now their families are left to grapple with unimaginable loss. We are committed to seeking justice for the victims and ensuring those responsible are held fully accountable.”

The motive behind the shooting has not yet been fully disclosed, though investigators believe the victims and suspects may have had prior contact or conflict. Authorities are continuing to examine any potential connections.

As the community of Donaldsonville mourns, family members of the victims are calling for peace, justice, and an end to the cycle of violence that continues to claim young lives far too soon.

Dantrell Gibbs and Jermaine “Trey” James are being remembered as vibrant, kind-hearted young men who had dreams for the future and were deeply loved by their families and friends. Vigils and memorials are being planned as loved ones try to make sense of this sudden and tragic loss.

Anyone with further information about the case is urged to contact the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers. This remains an active investigation.