Lafayette, LA – A murder charge against Johntay Hamilton, 29, has been dismissed after DNA evidence revealed that the only genetic material found on the alleged murder weapon belonged to the victim, Deniro Broussard, and a witness — not Hamilton.
Hamilton had been indicted by a Lafayette Parish grand jury on October 25, 2023, on a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Broussard on August 22, 2023. According to authorities, Broussard and a relative were walking in the 100 block of Shirley Picard Drive near Mudd Avenue in Lafayette when they were allegedly confronted by Hamilton. Police claimed that Hamilton produced a handgun, shot Broussard, and fled the scene on foot.
However, the case took a dramatic turn when forensic investigators analyzed the DNA on the firearm. Contrary to initial police reports, the only DNA found on the weapon was identified as belonging to the victim and a witness, not Hamilton. This crucial evidence led to the dismissal of the second-degree murder charge against him.
The decision to drop the charges was made following a review of the forensic findings, which cast doubt on Hamilton’s involvement in the shooting. The DNA results, coupled with a lack of other direct evidence linking him to the crime, were key factors in the prosecution’s decision to no longer pursue the case.
In an official statement, Hamilton’s defense attorneys expressed relief, asserting that the evidence had proven his innocence. “We are grateful that the truth has come to light and that Johntay Hamilton is no longer facing a charge he did not deserve,” the attorneys said.
The Lafayette Police Department, which initially investigated the case, has not commented on the new developments. However, the dismissal of the murder charge raises questions about the initial handling of the case and whether other evidence may have been overlooked.
As of now, Hamilton remains free, and no new charges have been filed in connection with the shooting. The investigation into Broussard’s death is still ongoing, though authorities have yet to identify any new suspects.
The case highlights the importance of forensic evidence in criminal investigations, especially DNA analysis, which has increasingly become a decisive factor in criminal justice proceedings.