Jefferson Parish, LA — August 2025 — A Jefferson Parish jury deliberated for approximately three hours on Friday before delivering a guilty verdict against Michael Harris, 36, in connection with the fatal shooting of a Belle Chasse couple. Harris was found guilty on two counts of first-degree murder and one count of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, according to Jefferson Parish court records.
The Crime and Victims
Michael Harris was charged with the murders of David Sumera, 36, and Alexxis Eymard, 26, who were tragically killed on September 24, 2022. The couple’s deaths sent shockwaves through the Marrero community, leaving family and friends devastated.
Sumera and Harris were known to each other, with relatives stating that the men were well-acquainted. The relationship between the parties has drawn attention as investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
Details of the Incident
Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office investigators revealed that Harris was riding in the back seat of a pickup truck driven by Sumera and Eymard. The trio had arrived at a house in the 2600 block of Bay Adams Drive in Marrero on the afternoon of the shooting. Authorities have indicated that the visit was related to drug activity.
Shortly after pulling into the driveway, Harris allegedly shot both Sumera and Eymard in the back of the head, killing them instantly. Surveillance footage from the scene shows a man identified as Harris exiting the truck with a T-shirt wrapped around his head, concealing his face.
The footage also captured Harris opening both the driver’s and passenger’s side doors before walking away with a black backpack. The bodies of Sumera and Eymard remained inside the truck for nearly four hours until a resident noticed and reported the scene to authorities.
Investigation and Arrest
Law enforcement recovered the discarded T-shirt a few blocks from the crime scene. DNA testing of the shirt helped identify Harris as the prime suspect in the case. Investigators also reviewed cellphone records connected to Eymard’s phone, noting multiple calls to Harris’ relatives and acquaintances both before and after the murders. The phone itself was never recovered.
Despite a warrant being issued for his arrest, Harris fled the area. He was apprehended approximately four months later at a bus stop in Memphis, Tennessee.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Following his conviction, Harris faces sentencing scheduled for September 3, 2025. The prosecution is expected to seek the maximum penalties allowed under Louisiana law, reflecting the severity and brutality of the crimes.
The murders of David Sumera and Alexxis Eymard remain a somber reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime in Jefferson Parish. The community continues to mourn the loss of two young lives and hopes for justice as the legal process moves forward.
More updates will be provided as sentencing approaches.