Teenager Fatally Shot During High School Football Game, Community in Mourning
The West Baton Rouge community is reeling after a tragic incident during a high school football game on Friday night resulted in the death of a teenager. Ja’Kobe Queen, a student from Brusly High School, lost his life in a shooting that also injured 28-year-old Brasia Davis from Port Allen. The shocking event occurred near a concession stand in close proximity to the bleachers where hundreds of spectators were watching the game. Law enforcement authorities are still investigating the incident and have yet to identify a suspect.
Councilmember Clarice Lacy, who was present at the game, expressed her deep disbelief and sorrow over the senseless act of violence. She emphasized the devastating impact it had on the community. Landon Groger, representing the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, underlined that such violence would not be tolerated and acknowledged that children were present at the event. He highlighted the excitement surrounding the first football game of the year and vowed to work towards ensuring the safety of future events.
Port Allen has seen its share of crime in the past, but Lacy is determined not to let it define West Baton Rouge. She stressed the importance of unity in the parish and the need to support one another. Lacy firmly believes that the wellbeing of one school affects the other, emphasizing that moving forward together is crucial.
While specific plans for how to move forward have not been disclosed, Groger mentioned collaborating with West Baton Rouge Schools to evaluate safety measures for upcoming games. The West Baton Rouge School Board issued a statement expressing condolences to the family of the deceased student and announced that crisis teams would be available at schools when classes resumed. Superintendent Chandler Smith declared that efforts in schools to teach conflict resolution without resorting to violence would be intensified. Smith also emphasized the importance of partnerships with law enforcement and other organizations to educate students on the destructive consequences of violence.
The tragedy has brought about a renewed commitment to ensuring safety measures, fostering support, and imparting valuable life lessons to students. It is a time for the community to come together, heal, and show resilience in the face of such challenging circumstances.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life and hopes for a brighter future, free from senseless acts of violence. West Baton Rouge remains determined to move forward, united as one.
