Louisiana Courthouse Shooting Claims Deputy’s Life and Injures Another Officer

A tragic shooting at a Louisiana courthouse resulted in the death of a deputy and critically injured another officer. Deputy Charles Riley, a dedicated six-year member of the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office and a family man, was shot during an altercation with a suspect inside the courthouse.

The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Latrell Clark, was being processed for a sexual assault case when he attempted to grab an officer’s firearm. During the ensuing struggle, shots were fired, and Riley was fatally wounded. Another officer, Captain Brett Stassi Jr., the son of the sheriff, was also injured and remains in critical condition but is stable at a nearby hospital.

Clark was killed during the confrontation, though details about who fired the shots remain unclear. The incident took place as officers were interviewing Clark inside the courthouse building, which also houses local government offices. The event has left the community in shock, with local law enforcement expressing their grief and disbelief.

Portrait of Deputy Charles Riley in uniform — Deputy Riley was shot while interviewing the suspect and was regarded as a well-loved officer.

Deputy Ronnie Hebert remarked, “This is the first time in 31 years that I’ve been part of an investigation where one of our deputies was shot or killed.” Riley was remembered as a dedicated officer and a person loved by many. Authorities have handed over the case to the Louisiana State Police with support from the FBI.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry called for prayers for the community and condemned the violence, emphasizing that it must end. The sheriff’s office is organizing blood drives to support Captain Stassi Jr., who continues to fight for his life. His father, Sheriff Brett Stassi, expressed gratitude for the community’s prayers and support during this difficult time.