Weapons/Drugs Deadly Mix

Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A tragic incident unfolded in West Monroe, LA, over the weekend resulting in the death of a woman and critical injuries to a male victim in a shooting incident. According to the West Monroe Police Department (WMPD), on February 18, 2024, at about 12:30 PM, officers responded to a shooting in Lazarre Park. Upon arrival, they discovered two victims in critical condition, both suffering from gunshot wounds. A witness provided information about the alleged shooter and the vehicle involved. During the search for the suspect, an Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office Deputy spotted the vehicle on Burg Jones Ln. in Monroe, LA.

The suspect then allegedly held two individuals at gunpoint inside the vehicle. The deputy was able to persuade the suspect to surrender, and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office Swat Team took him into custody without incident. The hostages were unharmed. The suspect, identified as Willie Earl Townes, Jr., 41, was found in possession of suspected PCP, crack cocaine, paraphernalia, and a firearm. He was originally booked on charges including two counts of Attempted Second Degree Murder, two counts of Second Degree Kidnapping, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Schedule 1 and 2 substances, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Sadly, Davina Wilson, 36, one of the victims, passed away on February 19, 2024, while the male victim remains in critical condition. One of Townes' attempted second degree murder charges is expected to be upgraded due to the victim's death.

Photo: Willie E. Townes Jr.

Photo: Davina Wilson