Kenner, LA (April 28, 2024) – On Sunday, April 28, 2024, a shooting incident in Kenner escalated into a standoff that lasted approximately 10 hours, resulting in injuries to three Kenner Police Department (KPD) officers and two additional individuals.
The incident unfolded when KPD officers responded to a call at a residence in the 700 block of Farm Avenue around 9:45 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered two men who had been shot and wounded, one of whom was critically injured. The address was identified as belonging to Matthew Lathers, 31, who was wanted in connection to a hold-up incident earlier in the week that left a man critically injured.
As KPD SWAT teams arrived to execute a search warrant, gunfire erupted, leading to three officers being shot. At least one SWAT officer returned fire during the exchange.
Recognizing the escalating situation, the Kenner Police Department called for assistance from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO). JPSO took command of the scene as Lathers began firing at an armored vehicle occupied by JPSO deputies.
Despite repeated attempts to negotiate with Lathers, all efforts proved unsuccessful. In response to the ongoing threat, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff sniper was deployed and fatally shot Lathers. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The injured parties, including the three KPD officers and two additional individuals, received medical attention. The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting and subsequent standoff.
No further details were immediately available regarding the identities or conditions of the injured individuals. The Kenner Police Department and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office are collaborating on the investigation and continuing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
As the investigation progresses, authorities urge anyone with information relevant to the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing efforts to understand the events that transpired.
