PINEVILLE, La. (UrbanCast: 9/25/2026) — A homicide investigation that began after a deadly shooting near a Lake Charles Walmart led authorities to Pineville five days later.
Lake Charles Police arrested 43-year-old Walter Paul Lyons in connection with the shooting death of Chad Anthony Ellis, 49. Lyons faces a charge of second-degree murder.
The shooting happened Saturday, September 19, in the 3400 block of Nelson Road. Lake Charles Police responded at approximately 8:34 p.m.
Officers found Ellis suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency crews transported him to a local hospital, where he later died.
Police initially described the shooting as an isolated incident and opened a homicide investigation.
Investigation Leads to Pineville
By Thursday, September 24, the investigation had reached Rapides Parish.
The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed directly to UrbanCast that deputies assisted Lake Charles Police and the U.S. Marshals Service. The agencies located and arrested Lyons in Pineville that morning.
Lake Charles Police reported the arrest occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m.
RPSO confirmed Lyons was then booked into the Rapides Parish detention system. He was later transferred to authorities in Lake Charles.
Rapides Parish booking records show Lyons entered the system at 9:58 a.m. The record identified him as an “Other Agency” prisoner and listed a Louisiana felony fugitive charge.
The same record shows Lyons left RPSO custody at 1:01 p.m.
Calcasieu Parish records show Lyons was booked there later that afternoon. The record lists a second-degree murder charge.
Lake Charles Police said Lyons’ bond was set at $850,000.
Police Describe Events Before Shooting
Investigators said Ellis and Lyons were in the same area before the shooting.
According to Lake Charles Police, Ellis became involved in a verbal argument with a group of people. Police allege Lyons then became involved in the argument.
Investigators allege Lyons shot Ellis a short time later.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information can call Lake Charles Police at 337-491-1311.
People can also submit anonymous tips through the Lake Charles Police Department app. Sgt. George Miller is the lead investigator.
All Persons Are Presumed Innocent Until Proven Guilty In A Court Of Law Or Administrative Action.
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