Four Arrested in Connection to Fatal Shooting of 22-Year-Old Justin Washington in Opelousas Community Grieves as Police Make Breakthrough in May 24 Homicide Investigation

Four Arrested in Connection to Fatal Shooting of 22-Year-Old Justin Washington in Opelousas
Community Grieves as Police Make Breakthrough in May 24 Homicide Investigation       

OPELOUSAS, LA – May 29, 2025 — The Opelousas Police Department has made significant progress in the investigation of a tragic fatal shooting that claimed the life of 22-year-old Justin Washington. The incident occurred late on Saturday night, May 24, 2025, inside a local residence, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting an immediate and thorough response by law enforcement.

Authorities responded to the scene around 10:30 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire in a residential neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers discovered Washington suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel were dispatched to the location, but despite their efforts, Washington was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the initial response, Opelousas Police launched an intensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives canvassed the area, interviewed witnesses, and reviewed surveillance footage from nearby properties to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the fatal encounter.

As a result of their tireless efforts, police were able to identify and apprehend four suspects believed to be involved in the crime. The individuals, whose identities have not yet been released pending formal charges, were taken into custody earlier this week without incident. They now face a range of charges, including first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and various firearm-related offenses.

Police Chief Martin McClendon praised the work of the investigators and emphasized the department’s commitment to seeking justice for the victim and his family.

“Our hearts go out to the family of Justin Washington,” said Chief McClendon during a press briefing. “We understand the pain that a loss like this causes, not only to loved ones but to the entire community. Our officers worked around the clock to ensure those responsible for this senseless act were quickly brought to justice.”

Chief McClendon also stressed the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes, noting that public tips and witness accounts played a crucial role in the successful apprehension of the suspects.

While the investigation remains ongoing, police are continuing to gather evidence and have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests. Authorities are urging anyone with further information related to the case to come forward and contact the Opelousas Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Justin Washington was remembered by friends and family as a kind and ambitious young man with a promising future. His death marks another devastating blow in the ongoing struggle against gun violence in the region.

City officials have echoed calls for peace and community solidarity in the wake of the tragedy. Opelousas Mayor Julius Alsandor issued a statement expressing condolences to the Washington family and reaffirmed the city’s support for law enforcement efforts to maintain safety and justice.

“This is a heartbreaking moment for our city,” Mayor Alsandor said. “We will continue to support the Opelousas Police Department in their mission to keep our neighborhoods safe and to hold those accountable who bring violence into our homes and communities.”

The Opelousas Police Department is expected to release more details as the case progresses, including the identities of the suspects and court proceedings. In the meantime, the community remains united in mourning and determined to uphold justice for Justin Washington.