Baton Rouge on Lockdown After Suspect Kills 5 in Mass Shooting

Baton Rouge on Lockdown After Suspect Kills 5 in Mass ShootingBaton Rouge on Lockdown After Suspect Kills 5 in Mass Shooting Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was placed on lockdown on Sunday, July 17, 2022, after a lone gunman opened fire in a crowded neighborhood, killing five people and injuring another before being fatally shot by police. The horrific shooting occurred near the intersection of Airline Highway and Goodwood Boulevard, a busy commercial area in the northern part of the city. According to witnesses, the suspect, 21-year-old John Houser, entered a car wash and began shooting indiscriminately at people inside and outside. Chaos ensued as patrons and passersby fled in terror. Five victims, including a 12-year-old girl, were killed in the rampage. The wounded victim was rushed to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police arrived on the scene within minutes and engaged in a shootout with the suspect, who was armed with an assault rifle. After a brief exchange of gunfire, officers fatally shot Houser, ending the attack. Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome ordered the city to be placed on lockdown as police and SWAT teams searched for any additional suspects or victims. Schools, businesses, and public transportation were closed for the day. The motive for the shooting is still under investigation, but police believe it was a random act of violence. Houser had no known criminal history or connection to the victims. “This is a senseless act of violence that has shattered our community,” said Mayor Broome. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.” The shooting has sent shockwaves through Baton Rouge and the nation. Politicians and law enforcement officials have condemned the violence and called for stricter gun control measures. “We must work together to end this scourge of gun violence that continues to plague our country,” said Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards. The lockdown was lifted later in the day, but police remain on high alert as the investigation continues. Counseling services are being provided to the victims’ families and the community.