A tragic shooting on Saturday evening, November 10, 2024, near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL) campus has left two people dead and two others injured, shocking the local community and casting a shadow over the university’s homecoming weekend. The Lafayette Police Department confirmed that 26-year-old Corey Mouton of Carencro and 24-year-old Jamir Carmouche of Lafayette lost their lives in the violent incident. The shooting took place at approximately 7:30 p.m., directly across from UL’s campus, outside the popular restaurant KOK Wings and Things on E. University Avenue. This heartbreaking incident occurred as crowds from UL’s homecoming football game were dispersing, adding to the chaotic scene.
A Deadly Attack at a Local Gathering Spot Near UL’s Campus
The fatal encounter unfolded outside KOK Wings and Things, a popular fried chicken restaurant and frequent gathering spot for UL students and residents alike. According to Lafayette police, the shooting appeared to be targeted, though it tragically impacted multiple victims, including individuals who were not the intended targets. Investigators responded to the scene minutes after the attack began, as reports flooded in from distressed bystanders who had been in the area following UL’s homecoming game.
Police stated that upon arriving, they found Corey Mouton and Jamir Carmouche with critical gunshot wounds. Mouton was pronounced dead at the scene, while Carmouche was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Two additional individuals, who have not been named, were also struck by gunfire and were rushed to the hospital. Fortunately, they are reported to be in stable condition and are expected to recover. Their names have not been released, and police have confirmed that they are likely innocent bystanders caught in the tragic line of fire.
The Scene of the Crime: Witness Accounts and Initial Investigation
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as shots rang out across the busy parking lot outside KOK Wings and Things, sending patrons and pedestrians scrambling for cover. A surge of patrons had gathered outside the restaurant, either returning from UL’s homecoming football game or simply enjoying the lively Saturday evening. Many witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing people scatter in all directions, unsure of the source of the attack. Police quickly arrived and cordoned off the area, beginning a preliminary investigation.
One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, described the terrifying moment the shots were fired: “I was just getting out of my car when I heard these loud bangs, and everyone started running. It was like something you see in a movie, but it was happening right here. People were screaming, and I saw someone lying on the ground. It’s devastating.”
The Lafayette Police Department promptly issued a statement following the incident, confirming that the shooting appeared to be a targeted attack. Although the investigation is still ongoing, initial evidence suggests that one of the individuals killed may have been the intended target. Police have not disclosed which of the victims was specifically targeted, nor have they commented on the possible motive behind the shooting.
The Victims: Remembering Corey Mouton and Jamir Carmouche
Family members, friends, and community members have begun mourning the loss of Corey Mouton and Jamir Carmouche, two young men whose lives were tragically cut short. Both Mouton and Carmouche had connections within the Lafayette community, and news of their deaths has prompted an outpouring of grief and support. Mouton, 26, hailed from Carencro, a nearby town known for its tight-knit community, while Carmouche, 24, was a Lafayette resident. Both men were described by loved ones as vibrant, hardworking, and well-loved by those around them.
A close friend of Carmouche expressed the heartbreak of losing him in such a violent manner: “Jamir was full of life. He was always there for his friends and family. We’re still in shock. We can’t believe he’s gone, and to think it happened so close to the campus, where everyone was celebrating, makes it even harder.”
Mouton’s family has also shared their grief, calling him a bright light in their lives who was always there to lend a helping hand to others. His cousin shared: “Corey was the kind of person who brought people together. He was kind and had a way of making everyone feel special. Our family is devastated, and we want answers.”
A Shattered Homecoming: Impact on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Community
The tragic shooting cast a pall over what was supposed to be a celebratory weekend for UL Lafayette, as students, alumni, and families had gathered for the university’s annual homecoming game and festivities. The incident, occurring so close to campus, has sent waves of shock and concern throughout the UL community, with many students expressing their sadness and frustration over the violence. The university released a statement offering condolences to the victims’ families and support to students impacted by the event.
University spokesperson Sara Collins addressed the campus community: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that took place near our campus. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families and all those affected by this senseless act of violence. We are working closely with local law enforcement as they investigate, and we are committed to ensuring our students’ safety and well-being.”
UL’s Counseling and Wellness Services department has opened additional support hours to assist students who may be struggling with the emotional impact of the shooting. The department has encouraged students to reach out if they need to process feelings of grief, fear, or anxiety.
Lafayette Police and Ongoing Investigation
The Lafayette Police Department has dedicated significant resources to investigating the fatal shooting, with officers conducting interviews and collecting evidence from the scene. They have not yet identified any suspects or made arrests. Authorities have also requested the public’s assistance, asking anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. They believe that witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the event could help provide critical leads to bring justice for the victims.
LPD has assured the public that they are working diligently to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. In a statement, LPD Chief Thomas Glover remarked, “This was a heartbreaking and unnecessary loss of life. Our department is fully committed to uncovering the truth of what happened Saturday night and bringing those responsible to justice. We urge anyone with information to contact us to help us make progress in this case.”
Increased Safety Measures and Community Reaction
In the wake of the tragedy, local residents and business owners near the University of Louisiana campus have expressed concerns over safety in the area. The high-profile nature of the shooting, combined with its proximity to UL and its impact on innocent bystanders, has fueled a growing call for increased security measures. Lafayette Police Department has stated that it is exploring strategies to ensure greater security for the neighborhood surrounding the university, especially during high-traffic events like homecoming.
Several Lafayette City Council members have also voiced support for increasing police patrols and security measures near the campus area. Councilmember Renee Bernard spoke to the press, expressing the importance of proactive measures: “Our community has been shaken by this tragic event. We need to ensure that such incidents do not become a regular occurrence in our city, especially near places where our students and families gather.”
Honoring the Victims and Looking Ahead
As Lafayette mourns the loss of Corey Mouton and Jamir Carmouche, the local community is organizing a vigil in their memory. Friends, family members, and community advocates are expected to gather at a nearby park to pay respects and remember the lives lost in the senseless act of violence. Organizers of the vigil have emphasized the need for peace, unity, and resilience in the face of tragedy. The families of both Mouton and Carmouche have requested privacy during this time of mourning, but they have expressed gratitude for the support and compassion shown by the community.
The incident has left an indelible mark on the Lafayette community, a somber reminder of the pressing need to address violence and improve safety for all residents. As the investigation continues, the Lafayette Police Department remains focused on gathering the details needed to resolve the case, while the UL Lafayette community and Lafayette residents continue to mourn, support one another, and seek healing and justice.
