Two Adults and One Injured Passenger Ambushed by Gunfire on I-10 West Near Prairieville; Two Fighting for Their Lives, One Seriously Wounded After Early-Morning Highway Attack

In the quiet hours before dawn on a Sunday morning, the tranquility of I-10 West near Prairieville was shattered by a sudden and violent attack that left two individuals clinging to life and a third seriously wounded. The victims—a group of three traveling westbound—had no warning when a second vehicle pulled alongside them and unleashed a hail of bullets before vanishing into the darkness.

The Incident

At approximately 2 a.m., the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO) received urgent calls reporting gunfire on Interstate 10 West near Prairieville, Louisiana. According to authorities, three people were inside a car heading westbound when another vehicle pulled up alongside them without warning. The occupants of this second car opened fire, sending bullets tearing through the victims’ vehicle. The attackers then fled the scene, disappearing into the night without leaving a trace.

The victims were left wounded and shaken, trapped on a busy highway where moments earlier they had been just driving home or to their destination.

Victims and Medical Response

Emergency services arrived promptly after the shooting was reported. Paramedics found the three victims suffering from gunshot injuries; two were in critical condition and rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency care, while the third sustained serious injuries but was listed as stable.

The identities of the victims have not been released publicly to respect family privacy, but sources indicate that the group included two adults and one younger individual. Their families have been notified and are now grappling with shock and fear as they await further news.

Police Investigation Underway

The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office quickly launched an investigation into the brazen highway shooting. Deputies are currently reviewing surveillance footage from traffic cameras and nearby businesses in an effort to identify the fleeing vehicle and its occupants.

Law enforcement officials are canvassing witnesses and appealing to the public for any information that may help solve this case. Sheriff Jeff Wiley condemned the violence, emphasizing the community’s right to safety on public roads.

“This act of violence on our highways is unacceptable,” Sheriff Wiley said in a statement. “We are committed to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice. We urge anyone with information to come forward.”

Rising Concerns Over Gun Violence in Ascension Parish

This violent shooting adds to a growing list of gun-related incidents troubling Ascension Parish and surrounding areas in Louisiana. The region, often perceived as a peaceful suburban community, has seen an uptick in violent crimes involving firearms over recent months, particularly along major roadways like I-10.

Residents and community leaders have expressed alarm at the increasing danger on roads that many rely on daily. Local groups have called for enhanced patrols, improved street lighting, and the installation of more surveillance cameras to deter such attacks in the future.

Community Reaction and Support

The shooting has left a deep wound in the Prairieville community. Friends, neighbors, and family members have come together to support the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time. Vigils and prayer gatherings have been organized to provide solace and to raise awareness about the urgent need to combat gun violence.

“Our hearts go out to the families caught in this nightmare,” said a community leader. “We must stand together to demand peace and safety for all.”

The Road Ahead

As the investigation continues, authorities remain hopeful that community cooperation will lead to the arrest of those responsible for this violent act. Meanwhile, medical teams work tirelessly to save the lives of the two critically injured victims, while the third battles serious wounds.

This incident serves as a stark reminder that no one is immune from violence, even on roads meant for safe passage. Ascension Parish faces a critical moment to come together, support victims, and push for meaningful reforms to prevent future tragedies.

How You Can Help

The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office has established a confidential tip line for anyone with information about the shooting or the suspects involved. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and all information will be treated with the utmost discretion.

The community is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as law enforcement intensifies efforts to restore safety on I-10 and throughout the parish.