A deadly shooting outside a Denham Springs apartment complex has been connected to gang activity from East Baton Rouge Parish, according to Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard.
Authorities said the killing appears to have been a targeted attack, with suspects allegedly traveling from another parish to carry out the crime.
Man Shot and Killed Outside Apartment
The victim, identified as Patrick Payne, was found shot to death Monday outside his apartment at The Parc at Denham Springs.
According to Sheriff Ard, Payne was leaving for work when he was attacked and killed.
Investigators responded to the apartment complex after receiving reports of the shooting and began working to determine what led to the deadly encounter.
Investigators Say Attack Was Gang-Related
During a Tuesday update, Sheriff Ard said detectives determined that the shooting was connected to gang activity.
Authorities believe individuals involved with a gang in East Baton Rouge Parish traveled into Livingston Parish to carry out what officials described as a targeted hit.
The sheriff did not immediately release additional details about the suspects or explain what may have motivated the attack.
Livingston Parish Officials Address Gang Activity Concerns
Sheriff Ard said law enforcement has been aware of gang-related activity in Livingston Parish and made clear that his office intends to take action against those involved.
“We’re going to do everything we can to fight this,” Ard said.
He emphasized that deputies will continue working to identify those responsible and prevent gang violence from spreading within the community.
Investigation Continues
The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office continues investigating the shooting, including gathering evidence and working to identify and arrest the suspects.
Authorities have not released information about possible arrests, charges, or additional suspects at this time.
Officials are asking anyone with information about the killing to come forward and assist investigators as they work to solve the case.
