Boyce, LA (April 17, 2024) – In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Gardner community was shaken by tragedy on Saturday, April 13, 2024, when a shooting unfolded at a convenience store located at the intersection of LA 28 West and Saint Clair Road. The incident, occurring at approximately 6:49 PM, left two individuals critically wounded, ultimately resulting in their untimely deaths.
Upon receiving reports of the shooting, Patrol Deputies and the Cotile Lake Fire Department rushed to the scene, where they found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save their lives, both victims were transported to a local hospital by Acadian Ambulance.
Sheriff’s Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit swiftly initiated an investigation into the harrowing event. From their painstaking examination, details of the altercation began to emerge. It was revealed that a 17-year-old juvenile, accompanied by his mother and a female friend, was involved in a heated dispute at the convenience store. Witnesses reported that bystanders intervened during the initial altercation, seemingly diffusing the situation temporarily.
Tragically, moments later, a second altercation erupted, during which the juvenile retrieved a pistol from one of the vehicles present. Despite pleas from bystanders and his mother, the juvenile fired a single round, fatally striking 27-year-old Michael Grossie, causing severe, life-threatening injuries. In a devastating twist of fate, the juvenile, later identified as Trayton Tyson, turned the gun on himself, inflicting severe, life-threatening injuries.
Despite the exhaustive efforts of law enforcement and medical personnel, both Michael Grossie and Trayton Tyson succumbed to their injuries earlier this week, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.
Caitlin Grossie, sister of Michael, expressed her profound sorrow, stating, “I’ve always followed your posts but never did I think it would be this close to home because this time it’s at home as close as home gets.”
Social media flooded with tributes to Michael, with many echoing the sentiments of Chelsy Dawn Landry, who fondly remembered him as “one of a kind” and the “life of the party.” The outpouring of love and support underscored the impact Michael had on those around him, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever be treasured.
Sheriff Mark Wood extended his heartfelt condolences to the Grossie and Tyson families, acknowledging the profound pain and sorrow gripping the Gardner and Cotile Lake community. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this senseless tragedy, Sheriff Wood called for prayers and support for the grieving families during this unimaginably difficult time.
The loss of Michael serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of violence. As the community mourns the untimely passing of a beloved father, son, brother, and friend, may his memory be a beacon of light amidst the darkness of grief.
