Natchitoches, La. (5/22/2026) – Natchitoches Police have arrested two suspects in connection with the deadly shooting on Grace Avenue earlier this month.
Investigators identified Tedrick White, 25, and Jakerius Demars, 19, both of Natchitoches, as suspects in the homicide investigation involving Michael Leslie of Many.
The investigation began on May 9 around 5:22 p.m. after officers responded to reports of gunfire near Grace Avenue and Dixie Street.
When officers arrived, they discovered an overturned vehicle in the 1400 block of Grace Avenue.
Inside the vehicle, officers found Leslie, 20, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Police immediately began rendering aid while additional first responders arrived at the scene.
However, the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office later pronounced Leslie dead from his injuries.
Meanwhile, detectives launched an extensive investigation into the shooting.
Investigators interviewed several witnesses and collected physical and digital evidence connected to the case.
Police said the evidence would undergo additional analysis at the crime lab.
As the investigation developed, officers arrested Demars first.
Demars faces charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, illegal use of weapons, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and wearing masks or hoods when prohibited.
Authorities booked him into the LaSalle Corrections and Natchitoches Parish Detention Center.
Police later identified White as a second suspect connected to the homicide.
At one point, investigators warned the public not to approach White because he was considered armed and dangerous.
Authorities eventually arrested White and booked him into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center.
White faces charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, illegal use of weapons, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The Natchitoches Police Department said the homicide investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101.
People can also contact Detective Charles Cassels at (318) 471-0814.
Anonymous tips can be submitted through the P3 Tips app or through Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388.
Crime Stoppers said tipsters may qualify for rewards of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.
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