Lafayette, La. (2/1/2026) — Louisiana man sentenced to life in federal prison after a deadly armed carjacking that took the life of Lafayette Parish woman Ella Goodie.
On January 27, 2026, Brandon Jermaine Francisco, 39, of Mansura, received a life sentence in federal court after pleading guilty to a carjacking that resulted in her death.
United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller said the life sentence holds Francisco accountable for what he called a brutal crime. “Today’s sentence ensures that the defendant will spend the rest of his life in federal prison for a brutal and senseless crime,” Keller said. “While no prison sentence can repay or erase the loss suffered by the victim’s family, including her young children, this case reflects our commitment alongside our state and federal partners to hold violent offenders accountable and pursue justice for victims.” (KLFY, Lafayette, Jan. 2026)
FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp also addressed the sentencing and offered condolences to the family. “Convicted carjacker Brandon Jermaine Francisco will be permanently removed from society and unable to hurt the people of Louisiana ever again,” Tapp said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the victim, and we are so sorry for your loss.” (KLFY, Lafayette, Jan. 2026)
According to Court Statements
According to court statements, the crime began with a transportation request and quickly turned into a deadly setup. Authorities said Francisco contacted Goodie, who worked as an Uber and Lyft driver, and arranged a trip to Missouri. The two agreed she would meet him in Lafayette, and she would drive him as far as Houston, Texas.
However, investigators said the violence happened after they left Houston and traveled back into Louisiana. Around Iowa, Louisiana, Francisco took control of the vehicle, shot Goodie several times, and then disposed of her body. He fled with the vehicle and ultimately reached Missouri, according to the case facts.
Law enforcement arrested Francisco near St. Joseph, Missouri on March 25, 2022. Investigators said he still possessed the firearm used in the killing, along with the key fob to Goodie’s vehicle. Officials later indicted him in November 2024, and the case moved forward in federal court.
Now, the victim’s loved ones are speaking publicly after the sentencing, and their words show the human cost behind the headlines.
UrbanCast will continue following this case, and viewers can watch our interview with the family after the sentencing to hear directly from those living with this loss.
Previous Article: Brandon Francisco pleads guilty to 2nd-degree attempted murder in a Christmas 2018 case.
