INDEPENDENCE, La. (UrbanCast: 9/14/2026) — A deadly shooting investigation was still unfolding early Monday when authorities began informing the public about what they knew.
One man is dead and another is injured following an apparent drive-by shooting in Independence.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office is assisting the Town of Independence with the investigation.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker addressed the public around 1:31 a.m. Monday, September 14. Investigators were still processing the crime scene at the time.
Sticker confirmed the shooting happened in the 200 block of Highway 40. The scene is between Interstate 55 and Old Highway 51.
One male died following the shooting. A second male suffered a gunshot wound and is expected to survive.
Investigators believe the gunfire came from a drive-by shooting. However, Sticker made clear that the investigation remained in its early stages.
Authorities did not speculate about a motive. They also did not announce suspects or arrests.
Instead, the sheriff provided the information investigators could confirm at that moment.
He also alerted motorists that Highway 40 would remain closed between I-55 and Highway 51. Investigators needed the roadway to process the crime scene.
The early morning briefing gave residents important information while protecting the integrity of an active investigation.
It also demonstrated that public safety communication does not always require authorities to have every answer.
In developing situations, confirmed information can help residents understand what is happening around them. Authorities can then provide additional details as investigators establish the facts.
Sticker told the public that authorities would continue sharing information as it became available.
TPSO said another update was expected during the daylight hours Monday.
UrbanCast will continue following the investigation and report additional confirmed information as authorities release it.
