Tragedy in Lake Arthur: Community Mourns Loss of 13-Year-Old Nayomie Fontenot After Fatal Shooting

 | May 10, 2025 | Lake Arthur, Louisiana

A devastating wave of grief has struck the small town of Lake Arthur, Louisiana, as residents mourn the tragic and senseless death of Nayomie Fontenot, a bright and beloved junior high student whose life was taken far too soon.

The 13-year-old, who attended the James Ward Center for Excellence in Jennings, was shot and killed earlier this week in an incident that has left the tight-knit community in shock. A local man has since been arrested and charged with her murder, but the pain and confusion left behind remain deep and raw.

A Community Shattered by Violence

The tragedy unfolded in the early evening hours in Lake Arthur, a small town where families know one another and children are raised under the collective watch of a caring community. According to the Lake Arthur Police Department, officers responded to reports of a shooting near a residential area. Upon arrival, they found Nayomie suffering from a gunshot wound.

Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a local hospital.

The suspect, whose identity has not yet been publicly released by authorities, was quickly taken into custody and is facing a charge of second-degree murder. Officials have not disclosed a motive, but they confirm that the suspect was known to the family. The investigation remains active, and additional details are expected to be shared in the coming days.

“This is the kind of call no parent should ever have to receive, and no officer should ever have to respond to,” said Police Chief Frank Broussard. “Our hearts go out to Nayomie’s family, her classmates, her teachers, and everyone who loved her. This is a tragedy that shakes us all.”

Remembering Nayomie Fontenot

Nayomie was known for her infectious laugh, kind heart, and deep love for her family. A seventh-grader at the James Ward Center for Excellence, she was described by teachers as a bright, respectful, and compassionate student with dreams of becoming a veterinarian.

“She was the kind of student who lit up a room with her smile,” said one teacher through tears. “Always helpful, always kind — the kind of child every educator hopes to teach.”

Nayomie loved animals, dancing, and spending time with her cousins and friends. Her favorite color was purple, and her bedroom was filled with drawings and notes that showcased her gentle spirit and imaginative mind.

“She was our baby,” said her aunt, holding a photo of the young girl. “She had so much ahead of her. This isn’t something you can understand. It’s something you survive.”

Her mother, whose name is being withheld for privacy, has not spoken publicly but is being supported by extended family and a growing circle of neighbors, friends, and community leaders who are determined to help her through what no parent should ever endure.

School Responds With Support and Sadness

At the James Ward Center for Excellence, grief counselors have been brought in to help students and staff cope with the loss. A memorial table has been set up in the front office with photos of Nayomie, a candle, and a book where students can write messages or prayers.

Principal Lisa Doucet issued a statement calling Nayomie’s death a “devastating loss for our school family” and vowed to honor her memory with “kindness, love, and action to keep our children safe.”

A moment of silence was held during the school’s morning announcements, and a balloon release is being planned for later in the week. Students are also preparing a memory board to present to Nayomie’s family at the upcoming memorial service.

Outpouring of Community Support

In the days since Nayomie’s passing, the community has rallied behind her grieving family. A candlelight vigil held in the town square drew hundreds of residents — some holding signs reading “Justice for Nayomie,” others simply coming together in silent solidarity.

Neighbors have dropped off food, donated to a growing GoFundMe campaign, and offered words of comfort in person and online.

“I don’t know what to say except we are here,” said Lake Arthur Mayor Sherry Crochet. “This family needs us. They need our love, our prayers, and our strength.”

The mayor also called for unity in the wake of the tragedy and encouraged parents to talk openly with their children about grief, gun safety, and emotional health.

Questions Remain as Family Seeks Justice

While an arrest has been made, many in Lake Arthur are still grappling with the central question: why? Why would someone take the life of a child — a child who had dreams, friends, and a future?

“This isn’t just about the justice system now,” said family friend and advocate Jamika Broussard. “This is about a little girl who should still be here. This is about healing, prevention, and making sure this never happens again.”

As the legal process unfolds, Nayomie’s family is preparing to lay her to rest. Funeral arrangements are underway and will be announced in the coming days.

In the meantime, the family asks for privacy, prayers, and compassion.

How to Help

A verified GoFundMe page has been launched to support Nayomie’s family with funeral expenses, grief counseling, and related needs. Donations and messages of support can be made online [link if available].

Those wishing to offer meals or assistance are encouraged to contact organizers through the “Justice for Nayomie” Facebook page.

Final Word

In a town where everyone knows your name, the loss of a child echoes loudly. But amid the grief, Lake Arthur stands together — broken but united, devastated but determined to remember Nayomie Fontenot not for the tragedy that took her, but for the light she brought to the world.

“She didn’t deserve this,” one mourner whispered at the vigil. “But she deserves to be remembered — every single day.”