Hammond, Louisiana – A 14-year-old girl lost her life after a late-night shooting in Hammond on Tuesday, prompting the arrest of an 18-year-old suspect, according to local authorities.
Police responded to reports of gunfire just before midnight and later confirmed the teenager died at a local hospital. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine all the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Incident Overview
Officers with the Hammond Police Department were dispatched around 11:50 p.m. Tuesday night after receiving calls about shots fired in the area. Upon arrival, officers located the young girl suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency responders transported her to North Oaks Health System, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Authorities have not publicly released the victim’s name due to her age.
Arrest of 18-Year-Old Suspect
During the initial response and investigation, officers identified Demontez “Trey” Robinson, 18, as a suspect in the shooting.
Police later conducted a traffic stop after spotting a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Robinson was reportedly driving the vehicle at the time of the stop. He was taken into custody without incident.
According to authorities, Robinson has been charged with one count of negligent homicide and was booked into the Hammond city jail.
What Police Say Happened
Investigators stated that preliminary findings indicate Robinson was handling a firearm when it discharged. The bullet struck the 14-year-old girl, leading to her fatal injuries.
Officials have emphasized that the case remains in its early stages, and detectives continue to gather evidence, conduct interviews, and review forensic findings to piece together the exact sequence of events.
No additional suspects have been announced, and police have not confirmed whether others were present at the time of the shooting.
Understanding Negligent Homicide Charges
In Louisiana, negligent homicide typically applies when a death results from criminal negligence, rather than intentional harm. This type of charge often involves unsafe firearm handling, reckless actions, or failure to exercise reasonable care.
If convicted, penalties can include significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Firearm-related incidents involving minors often raise additional concerns about supervision, safe storage, and responsible handling. Law enforcement agencies frequently stress the importance of proper gun safety practices to prevent accidental shootings.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The tragic death of a young teenager has shaken the Hammond community. Incidents involving juveniles highlight ongoing concerns about firearm access and safety education.
Gun safety advocates consistently recommend:
- Keeping firearms unloaded when not in use
- Storing guns in locked safes or with trigger locks
- Keeping ammunition stored separately
- Ensuring minors do not have unsupervised access
Late-night incidents also raise broader concerns about youth safety and supervision. Community leaders often encourage parents and guardians to remain vigilant and maintain open communication with teens about safe behavior.
Investigation Ongoing
Hammond police have stated that the investigation remains active. Authorities are continuing to collect physical evidence and interview witnesses to determine whether additional charges may be warranted.
Officials have not yet released further details about the relationship between the suspect and the victim.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Hammond Police Department.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of a 14-year-old girl in Hammond marks a heartbreaking loss for the community. With 18-year-old Demontez “Trey” Robinson now facing a negligent homicide charge, investigators continue working to fully understand how the firearm was discharged and whether additional circumstances contributed to the tragedy.
As the investigation moves forward, the community awaits answers while mourning the life of a young teenager taken too soon.
If you have thoughts about gun safety or community prevention efforts, Share your experiences in the comments below.
