An arrest warrant has been issued following a deputy-involved shooting that occurred in Assumption Parish on October 16. Paul Blanchard, 60, of Pierre Part is facing multiple charges including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault with a firearm, and a hate crime after he confronted a lawn care worker with racially charged remarks and fired a shotgun at the victim, as detailed by the Louisiana State Police. The altercation soon escalated, resulting in Blanchard also firing at responding deputies from the Assumption Parish Sheriff's Office (APSO), injuring the Sheriff.
The events unfolded when Blanchard initially left the scene after making racial slurs but returned shortly after, this time armed and opening fire, causing injuries to one individual. Blanchard proceeded to follow the victim inside a residence where there were three additional occupants, including a minor. According to the Louisiana State Police report, the deputies encountered Blanchard nearby during their search. A confrontation ensued, during which Blanchard discharged his weapon at the authorities, forcing a deputy to return fire, striking Blanchard.
Blanchard and the original shooting victim were both transported to a hospital with serious injuries as a result of the incident. The Sheriff sustained minor injuries, and the deputy involved was unharmed. Currently, Blanchard remains hospitalized and will be booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center upon medical clearance. The arrest warrant issued for Blanchard covers charges for two counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, one count of aggravated assault on a police officer, hate crimes, and aggravated burglary.
"Following the officer-involved shooting on Bayou Drive in Pierre Part, the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office requested the Louisiana State Police to conduct an independent investigation," said a statement provided by the Assumption Parish Sheriff's Office acknowledging the severity of Blanchard actions. Sheriff Falcon put forth "full confidence that the LSP investigation will be thorough, precise, and impartial," with the expectation that the findings will be carefully reviewed and prosecuted by the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office; a sentiment confirming belief in a forthcoming justice to be served, as per the Louisiana State Police.
The investigation of the deputy-involved shooting is being handled by the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division – Houma Field Office. Aspects of the investigation are still unfolding, and detectives are committed to piecing together the circumstances leading up to and following the violent exchange. Additional details will be disseminated in coordination with the District Attorney's Office as the investigation progresses. The public is also being asked to come forward with any information, photos, or videos that may assist in the ongoing investigation. Tips can be shared anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline.
