Suspect Arrested Following Gum Ridge Road Shooting in Marksville

According to the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office, a suspect has been taken into custody following a shooting incident early Tuesday morning in Marksville.

Authorities say the Avoyelles Communication Center received a 911 call around 2:19 a.m. on April 14, 2026, reporting an active shooting in the 700 block of Gum Ridge Road. Deputies responded to the scene alongside officers from the Marksville Police Department and the Tunica-Biloxi Police Department.

When officers arrived, they secured the area so emergency responders could assist a female victim who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Acadian Ambulance transported the victim to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The APSO Criminal Investigations Unit led the investigation. Through coordination with deputies and assisting agencies, investigators identified a suspect as Justin James Thomas. He was later located at a residence on Alvin Ford Lane in Marksville.

Officials say, after a brief period of negotiation, Thomas surrendered to law enforcement without further incident and was taken into custody.

He has been booked into the parish detention center on multiple felony charges, including:

• Attempted Second Degree Murder
• Aggravated Second Degree Battery (Domestic)
• Illegal Use of Weapons
• Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

His bond has been set at $350,000, and Louisiana Probation and Parole has been notified.

Sheriff David L. Dauzat acknowledged the coordinated response, thanking deputies and assisting agencies for their efforts in maintaining public safety.

This report is based on information released by the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office.