Tragedy in Monroe: 14-Year-Old Diamond Shot 16 Times in Targeted Ambush in Booker T Neighborhood — Now on Life Support as His Mother and Community Beg for Prayers and Justice

MONROE, LA — May 24, 2025 

In a shocking and heartbreaking act of violence, 14-year-old Diamond is fighting for his life after being shot 16 times Thursday evening, May 23, in Monroe’s Booker T neighborhood. The vicious shooting has shaken the community to its core and left his family — especially his mother — devastated and praying for a miracle.

According to Monroe Police, the shooting happened around 7:10 p.m. in the 300 block of Booker T Drive. Officers arrived on the scene to find young Diamond lying motionless, riddled with gunshot wounds across his body. Neighbors rushed to help, but the extent of the injuries left many in shock.

Emergency responders transported Diamond to St. Francis Medical Center, where surgeons worked throughout the night in an attempt to save his life. He remains in critical condition on life support, with doctors warning that the next 24 to 48 hours are crucial.

“He’s just a child. He didn’t deserve this,” said one of Diamond’s relatives. “We’re begging for prayers. Please pray for him. Pray for his mama. She’s living a nightmare no parent should ever face.”

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY — POLICE BELIEVE SHOOTING WAS TARGETED

Monroe Police Chief Victor Zordan confirmed Friday that the attack appears to have been targeted, though the motive remains under investigation. Witnesses reported hearing more than a dozen gunshots ring out in rapid succession before seeing a vehicle flee the scene.

At least 16 shell casings were recovered from the scene, and investigators believe the shooter used a semi-automatic weapon. No suspects have been arrested, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

“We are dealing with a deeply disturbing level of violence here,” said Chief Zordan. “Someone tried to execute a 14-year-old boy. Diamond deserves justice, and we are not going to stop until we find who did this.”

Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from homes and businesses in the area and conducting interviews with neighbors and potential witnesses.

A CITY IN MOURNING — AND A MOTHER IN AGONY

The news of Diamond’s shooting has sent waves of grief and anger throughout Monroe, especially in the Booker T neighborhood, where he was well known and loved.

Described as a respectful, fun-loving, and bright young boy, Diamond was a student with big dreams. Friends say he enjoyed video games, music, and spending time with his cousins.

His mother — now forced to sit helplessly at his hospital bedside — has received an outpouring of support as her son fights for his life.

“My baby didn’t do anything wrong,” she said in an emotional moment outside the hospital. “Please don’t let him be another name that people forget. Pray for him. Pray hard.”

PRAYER VIGIL SCHEDULED AS COMMUNITY DEMANDS CHANGE

In response to the shooting, community leaders and local clergy have announced a prayer vigil will be held Sunday, May 25 at 6:00 p.m. at the corner of Booker T Drive and Lee Avenue. The event will be a time of reflection, unity, and calls for peace and justice.

On social media, messages of support have flooded in under the hashtags #PrayForDiamond, #JusticeForDiamond, and #MonroeStrong.

“Lord, we’re lifting up Diamond and his family. Wrap them in your arms,” wrote one user.
“Sending love and prayers to his mama. No one deserves this pain. No child should ever be shot 16 times.”

Local organizations are also coming together to support the family, helping with meals, transportation, and fundraising for medical expenses. A verified GoFundMe is expected to be launched soon to assist with mounting hospital costs.

MAYOR, CITY OFFICIALS CALL FOR ACTION

Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis released a statement Saturday morning calling the shooting a tragedy that demands urgent action.

“Diamond’s shooting is not just a wake-up call — it’s a siren. We are in a state of crisis when a 14-year-old can be gunned down like this in our streets. Our children deserve better. Monroe will not rest until we make our neighborhoods safe again.”

City officials say they are coordinating with police, community groups, and youth advocates to launch emergency interventions in high-risk areas.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

• Join the prayer vigil: Sunday, May 25 at 6:00 PM at Booker T Drive and Lee Avenue.
• Donate: A verified GoFundMe will be linked as soon as it is made public by the family.
• Report any tips: Call Monroe Police at (318) 329-2600 or Crime Stoppers at (318) 388-CASH.

As Monroe holds its breath, Diamond remains in a hospital bed fighting for his life — a 14-year-old boy whose name should never have been in a headline like this. His mother, family, and an entire city are pleading: let his story lead to change.