MARKSVILLE, La. (4/15/2026) — Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s deputies arrested a local man Tuesday morning following a shooting on Gum Ridge Road.
The incident began at 2:19 a.m. when the Avoyelles Communication Center received a 911 call. APSO deputies responded to the 700 block of Gum Ridge Road. Officers from the Marksville and Tunica Biloxi Police Departments assisted at the scene.
Victim Receives Medical Aid
Upon arrival, law enforcement secured the area and rendered aid to a female victim. She had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Acadian Ambulance arrived shortly after and transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment.
Suspect Located and Detained
The APSO Criminal Investigations Unit launched an immediate investigation into the incident. During the search, authorities identified Justin James Thomas, 19, as the suspect.
Deputies located Thomas at a residence on Alvin Ford Lane. After brief negotiations, Thomas surrendered to deputies without further incident.
Formal Charges and Bond
Authorities booked Thomas into the APSO DC-1 jail on several felony charges. These counts include:
- Attempted Second Degree Murder
- Aggravated Second Degree Battery (Domestic)
- Illegal Use of Weapons
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
His bond is set at $350,000.00. Furthermore, officials notified Louisiana Probation and Parole of the arrest.
Agency Cooperation
Sheriff David L. Dauzat credited the arrest to the teamwork between local agencies. He thanked the Marksville and Tunica Biloxi departments for their assistance in the case. These partnerships remain vital to maintaining public safety in the parish.
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