Shreveport, Louisiana — Victor Samuel Jr., a 17-year-old teenager, has been identified as the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred in the Cedar Grove neighborhood of Shreveport on the evening of September 23, 2025. The shooting, which marks the 29th homicide in Shreveport this year, took place in the 8300 block of Harding Avenue around 9:40 p.m. on Tuesday.

According to the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office, Samuel was struck by gunfire and transported to Ochsner LSU Health hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at 11:06 p.m. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and Shreveport Police are actively investigating.

Details of the Shooting

The shooting was reported just before 9:40 p.m., with witnesses or calls to emergency services alerting authorities to the scene. Police arrived to find Samuel, who had been shot, and he was immediately rushed to the hospital by emergency medical services.

Authorities have not yet released further details about the circumstances leading to the shooting or any potential suspects. At this stage, it is unclear if the shooting was targeted or the result of a random act of violence. The police investigation is ongoing, and officers are looking for any leads, including witnesses or surveillance footage, that could help explain the tragic incident.

Shreveport’s Growing Concerns Over Gun Violence

This shooting marks the 29th homicide in Shreveport this year, contributing to an ongoing pattern of violence in the area. The Caddo Parish area as a whole has seen 34 homicides in total, a number that has alarmed local officials and residents alike. As gun violence continues to increase, concerns over public safety in neighborhoods like Cedar Grove are growing.

Shreveport Mayor Lorna Thomas and local officials have expressed concern over the recent rise in gun violence, calling for increased safety measures and community engagement to address the root causes of violence. This latest tragedy adds to the already high number of killings in the city, prompting renewed calls for action to combat the growing issue of youth violence.

Autopsy Ordered: Investigation Underway

Following Samuel’s death, an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death and to assist law enforcement in their ongoing investigation. Investigators are also working to identify any potential witnesses or leads that could help piece together the events that led to the shooting. As of now, no suspects have been named, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

The Shreveport Police Department is continuing its work on the case, with investigators canvassing the area for surveillance footage and any potential eyewitnesses. The department is also urging residents in the area to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Family and Community Reactions

The death of Victor Samuel Jr. has deeply impacted his family, friends, and the broader Cedar Grove community. Samuel was known as a young man with a bright future, and his loss has been felt by those who knew him. Local residents have expressed their shock and sadness over the shooting, which occurred in what many considered to be a safe neighborhood.

“We just don’t understand why this happened,” said a family friend. “Victor was just a kid, and it’s heartbreaking to know that he’s gone. We’re just praying for his family, and hoping that whoever did this is brought to justice.”

The community has rallied around Samuel’s family, offering their condolences and support as they navigate this difficult time. Local churches and organizations have also expressed their solidarity, providing resources for grieving families and organizing support groups for those affected by gun violence.

Efforts to Combat Gun Violence in Shreveport

The tragic death of Victor Samuel Jr. has highlighted the ongoing issue of gun violence in Shreveport. Law enforcement officials are calling for stronger community policing measures, increased surveillance, and greater outreach efforts to curb youth violence.

“We must do everything we can to protect our young people from the dangers of violence,” said Shreveport Police Chief Derrick T. Johnson. “We are working diligently to find the person responsible for this shooting, and we will continue to do everything in our power to reduce violence in our community.”

Looking Ahead: Seeking Justice for Victor Samuel Jr.

As the investigation continues, Shreveport’s residents are hoping for swift justice in the case of Victor Samuel Jr.. His death has served as a reminder of the toll that gun violence continues to take on the city, particularly on its youth. For his family, the focus is now on ensuring that justice is served and that Samuel’s memory is honored in a meaningful way.

“We want justice for Victor,” said Mahmoud, Samuel’s older brother. “He didn’t deserve this. We just want to make sure he’s remembered for the good person he was.”

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and help bring those responsible to justice. As Shreveport continues to deal with the effects of violent crime, the community remains united in its push for a safer, more secure environment for everyone.