Alexandria, LA (5/31/2025) – Gun violence continued its troubling pace Friday night, as two more individuals were shot outside a local nightclub in the 2000 block of Lee Street around 3:51 AM Saturday morning. One of the victims remains in critical condition. According to Alexandria Police, this latest incident brings the total to eight injured and one dead in a wave of shootings over the past two weeks.
The investigation is ongoing. No suspects have been named.
“It Can Happen Anywhere”
Residents have grown increasingly concerned, saying the violence is no longer confined to one part of town. “Things are getting worse by the minute,” one person commented, “and it can kick off anywhere in Alexandria now.”
This marks the seventh reported shooting in just 14 days, spanning neighborhoods and timeframes, with little to no public updates from leadership.
“A Sinking Ship” with No Direction
From business owners to parents, the mood across the city is consistent, unease, frustration, and fatigue.
“People won’t cross the river to shop or spend money here anymore,” one person noted. “Alexandria is becoming a crime-ridden ghost town.”
Another added: “There’s nothing to do. The zoo is great, but how many times can you take your kids there and call it exciting?”
Residents pointed to failing infrastructure, vacant buildings, a near-empty mall, and visible homelessness as symptoms of a city in decline. “Change takes money and time, and most of us don’t have either anymore,” one comment read.
“Stop Using It as an Excuse, Address It”
A previous comment blamed gun violence on a lack of father figures. In response, others offered a more constructive view.
“If you believe fatherless homes are the issue, then do something about it,” one resident said.
“Fund intervention programs. Build recreation opportunities. Start early and guide these kids between the ages of 6 and 16. I’m proof that it works. I’m not a criminal, I was supported.”
The message from the public is clear: If the issue is known, ignoring it is no longer acceptable.
Support for Officers, Frustration with City Leadership
Notably, most residents are not blaming the police. In fact, there’s broad recognition of their impossible workload.
The department is reportedly approximately 60 officers short, currently serving a city of nearly 45,000 residents.
“They can’t even hire enough officers,” one person wrote. “And even if they could, people don’t fight anymore, they shoot.”
Another added, “APD is overworked and underpaid, and still showing up. They aren’t the problem.”
The problem, many feel, lies with city leadership’s lack of a visible, actionable plan.
UrbanCast reached out to the city council members in District #1, #2, #3 and At-Large regarding the rising violence. Only Councilman Jules Green responded, noting he is currently tending to personal matters following the recent passing of his wife. He shared that he plans to review the situation more closely over the weekend. No other council members responded to requests for comment as of this publication.
A City Still Waiting
Alexandria’s residents are not just angry. They’re exhausted, worried, and demanding more than silence. They are asking the right questions:
What’s the plan? Who is leading? When will change begin?
If you have any information about this or other shootings:
Call the Alexandria Police Detective Division at (318) 441-6416
Call APD Dispatch at (318) 441-6559
Email: APDDetectives@cityofalex.com
Contact Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867
Submit tips through the P3 Tipster App: www.p3tips.com/community/mobile
Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of last night’s shooting, their families, and all those impacted by this ongoing violence. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the first responders who continue to serve this community under incredibly difficult circumstances. May comfort, strength, and healing surround everyone affected.
Previous Article: Two More Shot Overnight in Alexandria as Gun Violence Climbs: Where Do We Go From Here?
