Rapides Parish, La. (Oct. 3, 2025) – The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrests of two men following a deadly mass shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, September 27, 2025, outside Super Daqz on US 71 South.
Incident Details
Around 4:30 a.m., deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the parking lot of Super Daqz located at 7533 US 71 South. All five victims had been transported to local hospitals by private vehicles before deputies arrived. Detectives secured the crime scene and collected evidence from multiple locations, including Raising Canes on MacArthur Drive.
The Rapides Parish Coroner confirmed that one victim, 27 year old Ra’Kel Markez Morris of Alexandria, was pronounced dead at Christus Cabrini ER that morning. Four other victims were treated at local hospitals for gunshot wounds. Their conditions have not been released.
Suspects Arrested
Detectives identified two suspects through witness statements, evidence, and surveillance video.
Christian Matthew Scott, 28, of Simmsport
Charge: Second Degree Murder
Jonathan Lee Christal, 31, of Lettsworth
Charge: Second Degree Murder
Scott was arrested on September 30 and Christal on October 2. Both remain in custody at the Rapides Parish Detention Center on one million dollar bonds.
The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives believe more arrests are possible. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective John Skrobarcek at 318 473 6727, the RPSO Main Office at 318 473 6700, or Crime Stoppers at 318 443 7867.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Simmsport Police Department, US Marshals Violent Offenders Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their assistance.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative action.
Community Response
A balloon release honoring Ra’Kel Markez Morris will be held on Friday, October 3, at 5:30 p.m. at Alexandria City Park located at 1 Babe Ruth Drive. Community members will gather to remember his life and call for peace in the face of violence.
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