Easter Sunday Turns Tragic in Ruston as 30-Year-Old Deontrell Marquis Hunter Is Gunned Down Outside Barbershop; Four Others Injured in Senseless Act of Violence

RUSTON, LA — What began as a quiet, family-centered Easter Sunday ended in horror and heartbreak when gunfire erupted outside a local barbershop, claiming the life of a young father and wounding four others. Around 10 p.m. on the evening of March 31st, 30-year-old Deontrell Marquis Hunter was fatally shot in front of Y2 Kuts, a well-known barbershop on South Farmerville Street in Ruston.

Deontrell, described by loved ones as a vibrant, kind-hearted soul with a sharp wit and deep love for his family, was hit and collapsed immediately outside the shop. Witnesses say he “dropped in front of the barbershop and never got back up.” Despite efforts from those on the scene and responding medics, he was pronounced dead not long after the shooting. His loss reverberates through a community already weary from violence and now shattered by the sudden absence of a man who meant so much to so many.

Four other individuals who had been standing nearby were also struck by stray bullets in the chaos that unfolded in mere seconds. Their conditions have not been publicly released, but officials have confirmed that they were transported to area hospitals for emergency treatment. Authorities believe they were unintended victims—caught in the crossfire of a targeted attack.

Now, a manhunt is underway for Zyheim T. Butcher, a 23-year-old from Bastrop who police say is wanted for murder in connection to the shooting. A warrant has been issued for Butcher’s arrest, and authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information about his whereabouts. He is considered armed and dangerous.

The violence on what should have been a peaceful, reflective holiday has left the city of Ruston shaken. “This is not what Easter is supposed to look like,” said one community leader who arrived at the scene within hours. “A family lost a son, possibly a father, a friend. Lives were changed forever in an instant. We have to do better.”

Deontrell Hunter was well-known in the Ruston area. Friends say he was a regular at Y2 Kuts, often stopping by not just for a haircut but for conversation and connection. “That was his spot. He’d go in, joke with the barbers, talk about the Saints, and just vibe,” said one close friend. “He didn’t deserve this.”

The shooting took place in a busy part of the city, not far from homes and businesses that were filled with families winding down after Easter dinners. Some had even gathered outside to enjoy the warm spring evening. Instead, they were forced to flee as shots rang out and sirens soon followed.

Ruston Police Department is asking anyone who may have seen anything or has video footage from the area around the time of the shooting to contact them. “Even the smallest piece of information could help bring justice to Deontrell’s family,” said Police Chief Steve Rogers in a brief statement. “We are committed to finding the person responsible and holding them accountable.”

As the investigation unfolds, the grief deepens. Tributes are beginning to pour in on social media, where friends, family, and community members are remembering Deontrell as someone who “always had your back,” who “lit up every room he walked into,” and who now “leaves behind a legacy of love.”

Crisis counselors have been made available at local schools and community centers, and a vigil is already being planned to honor Deontrell’s life and call for peace in the city. There is growing frustration—and exhaustion—among residents who fear this kind of violence is becoming far too frequent.

The Easter Sunday shooting is now under active investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For those mourning Deontrell Marquis Hunter, justice can’t come soon enough—but it will never bring back the young man lost too soon to senseless violence.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Deontrell Hunter, and to the others who were injured in this tragic event.