Pierre Part, LA – Louisiana State Police have issued an arrest warrant for a 60-year-old man accused of shooting a civilian and firing at law enforcement during a violent confrontation in Assumption Parish last week.
According to the Louisiana State Police, the October 16 incident began when Paul Blanchard of Pierre Part allegedly confronted a man performing lawn care work, made racially charged remarks, and later returned armed with a shotgun. Investigators say Blanchard fired at the worker, hitting him, before entering a nearby residence where three others — including a juvenile — were present.
When deputies from the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office arrived, Sheriff Leland Falcon and another deputy located the wounded victim. While searching for the shooter, Blanchard allegedly fired toward the Sheriff, grazing him. The deputy then returned fire, striking Blanchard.
Both Blanchard and the shooting victim were hospitalized with serious injuries. The Sheriff sustained minor wounds, while the deputy was unharmed.
Detectives have since obtained a warrant charging Blanchard with two counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, one count of aggravated assault on a police officer, a hate crime, and aggravated burglary.
The Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office requested that Louisiana State Police conduct an independent investigation, which remains active. Additional details will be released in coordination with the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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