By Paige Nash
An 18-year-old is in critical condition after being shot, following an altercation that took place just outside the city limits of Springhill Monday afternoon. Around 2 p.m. about 8 individuals ranging in ages 15 to 18 were involved in a fist fight in the middle of Highway 157.
After the altercation, the individuals disbanded into two groups and went separate ways, with one group retreating to a house and the other group driving away in a white vehicle. According to witnesses, the vehicle returned to the house after some time and reportedly opened fire towards the house. The group sitting on the porch of the house then returned fire, hitting two passengers in the vehicle.
The 18-year-old was transported to Springhill Medical Center and then airlifted to Ochsner LSU Health. The other juvenile passenger that was hit during the shooting was treated at Minden Medical Center for non-life-threatening injuries.
“We have not made any arrests at this time. We are trying to follow-up on some leads, but it’s time consuming when you’re having to interview juveniles. Since they are underage, you must have a parent or guardian present with them,” said Webster Parish Sheriff, Jason Parker.
The white car that was hit during the shooting was recovered, along with the gun that was fired, injuring the two passengers.
“We had to use a magnet to retrieve the gun. It was dropped in a well at the house,” said Parker. When asked how the teenagers were in possession of the guns, Parker confirmed the gun retrieved from the well was stolen.
These individuals are not believed to be affiliated with any gangs but are allegedly a group of friends who all grew up together in this area.
The Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office is still investigating and following up on leads currently. They will be meeting with the District Attorney’s office soon to determine how to proceed in this case. They are not sure at this time whether it will go before a grand jury.
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