ALEXANDRIA, La. (2/26/2025) – Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the Lanny Street shooting investigation, following a series of law enforcement operations. The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) confirmed that a SWAT operation was conducted today at approximately 3 PM in the 2100 block of Albert Street in Alexandria. This action supported an ongoing investigation into a violent shooting incident on Friday night that left two victims critically wounded.
Initial Shooting on Lanny Street
On Friday, February 21, 2025, at approximately 8 PM, RPSO Patrol Deputies and members of the Crime Suppression Unit responded to reports of gunfire in the 4800 block of Lanny Street. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency responders with Acadian Ambulance transported both individuals to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition.
Sheriff’s Detectives, along with the Crime Scene Unit, immediately began processing evidence and conducting witness interviews. Agents with the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Task Force also assisted in the investigation.
Suspect Identification and Arrest
Through collected evidence and witness statements, detectives identified 24-year-old Joe Nathan Venson, Jr. of Alexandria as the primary suspect. Investigators determined that an altercation between Venson and the victims escalated into gunfire, leading to the victims’ injuries.
On the night of Saturday, February 22, 2025, just after midnight, detectives, along with deputies assigned to the Crime Suppression Unit, tracked Venson to an address on Laccasine Drive in Alexandria. Due to the nature of the crime, RPSO SWAT was called in to assist with the apprehension. The operation resulted in Venson’s arrest without incident.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Venson was booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on the following charges:
- Two counts of Attempted Second-Degree Murder
- Four counts of Contempt of Court
He is currently being held on a $1,000,000 bond.
Sheriff’s Detectives have stated that the investigation is still ongoing and that additional arrests may be possible as more information develops.
Authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in gathering more details related to the Lanny Street shooting investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact:
- RPSO Criminal Investigation Division: (318) 473-6727
- RPSO Main Office: (318) 473-6700
- Crime Stoppers: (318) 443-7867
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers P3 Tipster app, where tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
RPSO also acknowledged the Alexandria Police Department for their support in the arrest operation.
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