Tributes Pour In as Victims of Fatal Mamou Mardi Gras Shooting Are Remembered
A day meant for celebration turned to tragedy as a fatal shooting at a Mardi Gras concert in Mamou left two people dead and 12 others injured. The small Evangeline Parish community is mourning as tributes pour in for the victims, including a Lafayette high school student whose impact was felt far beyond the classroom.
Among those killed in the shooting was Alaya Christian, a student at Lafayette Renaissance Charter High School. The school issued a heartbreaking statement on social media, remembering Christian as an outstanding scholar and leader.
"She was not only a dedicated student but also a proud member of our softball team, student council, a football trainer, and an active participant in numerous clubs and organizations. Her impact on our school was immeasurable, and she will be deeply missed," the school wrote.
Another victim, identified by loved ones as Bryson by numerous family members on social media, was honored in an emotional Facebook post by family member Keoka Ledet.
Heartfelt posts from David Francis were also shared multiple times on social media mourning the loss of a victim he described as his little brother.
The shooting erupted Tuesday evening during a zydeco concert, sending crowds scrambling for safety. Witnesses described the chaos as gunfire rang out, with some diving behind cars for cover and a man seen shielding a baby in a stroller. Video footage showed Chris Ardoin and his band NuStep Zydeko performing when shots interrupted the event.
Ardoin, who was on stage with his 13-year-old son, described the terrifying moment in a Facebook video.
"When I heard the shots, I dropped my accordion and jumped on my son to protect him," he said, adding that law enforcement officers rushed to shield the band. "It sounded like at least 100 rounds were fired."
Authorities have not yet confirmed details about the suspected shooter or a possible motive. The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police are leading the investigation, with Mamou Mayor Leisa Deshotel urging anyone with information to come forward.
"It is a very sad incident that took place here in Mamou, and I want to send my deepest condolences to the victims and their families," Deshotel said.
The Mamou Mardi Gras festival is known for its traditional Courir de Mardi Gras. This is the first time an event this tragic has unfolded during the festivities, leaving people in town and beyond shaken and searching for answers.
As families grieve and the investigation continues, South Louisiana continues to come together to offer prayers and condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this senseless tragedy.
