Rayne, LA – Authorities are requesting the public’s assistance in locating Courtney Kendell Rogers Jr., a 26-year-old man from Baton Rouge, who is wanted in connection with a shooting that occurred on Easter Sunday. Rogers is facing charges of attempted first-degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, and illegal use of weapons, the same charges filed against his brother-in-law, Demond Marquise Tenner, 22, also of Baton Rouge.
Tenner was arrested shortly after the incident and booked into custody, while Rogers remains at large. The two men are accused of participating in a shooting that left at least two people injured, including an 18-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man, who were both shot in the head. Thankfully, both victims are now listed in stable condition.
The shooting took place around 7:30 p.m. on Easter Sunday in the 900 block of Lyman Avenue. Police allege that Rogers and Tenner opened fire on a group of individuals inside a white Ford Explorer. The victims, who had been shot, managed to flee the scene, driving themselves to the Rayne Police Department for assistance. Officers and firefighters immediately assisted the wounded, and they were subsequently transported to local hospitals for treatment.
In a statement, Rayne Police Chief Carroll Stelly expressed outrage over the incident, emphasizing the reckless disregard for human life, especially given that children were in the vicinity at the time of the shooting. “Such willful disregard for human life is sickening,” Chief Stelly remarked. “These individuals discharged firearms directly toward children while trying to kill people fleeing in a vehicle. It’s a miracle no one was killed during this reckless act.”
Police believe Rogers played an active role in the attempted murders, firing recklessly in the presence of innocent bystanders, including children. Authorities have urged anyone with information on Rogers’ whereabouts to come forward. Crime Stoppers of Acadia Parish is offering assistance, with individuals able to contact the Rayne Police Department or call 337-789-TIPS with any tips.
Chief Stelly also extended his gratitude to the Baton Rouge Police Department’s Homicide Division, Special Investigations Unit, and the Crime Fighters of Louisiana, whose support played a crucial role in Tenner’s arrest. He added that more arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
Rayne Police are continuing their efforts to locate Rogers and investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anyone with information is encouraged to help authorities bring those responsible to justice.