Southern University Shooting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Two Injured Near Homecoming Parade, Three Suspects Arrested as Police Investigation Continues

BATON ROUGE, LA — A shooting near Southern University’s homecoming parade in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, left two men injured and prompted a police investigation that resulted in three arrests. Authorities confirmed that the shooting occurred on September 27, 2026, as attendees were leaving the university’s homecoming parade, raising concerns about public safety around major community celebrations.

The Baton Rouge Police Department reported that gunfire erupted around 2:30 p.m. near the intersection of Osprey and Kingfisher avenues. Responding officers discovered two men suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims sustained injuries believed to be non-life-threatening.

What Happened During the Southern University Shooting?

According to investigators, the victims were leaving the Southern University homecoming parade when the shooting occurred.

Police emphasized that the violence was not connected to the homecoming celebration itself, although the victims had attended the event.

Investigative reports indicated that three vehicles carrying several people, including children, were leaving the parade when armed individuals allegedly approached and opened fire.

Authorities said multiple vehicles were struck by bullets, highlighting the danger posed to others in the surrounding area.

Three Suspects Arrested Following Baton Rouge Shooting

In a significant development, Baton Rouge authorities confirmed the arrests of three suspects connected to the shooting.

Jahiem Demond Johnson, 20, was arrested on October 6, 2026, on charges including seven counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated criminal damage to property, and illegal use of weapons.

Two additional suspects, Kedrick Keller, 18, and Jakehireyus Franklin, 19, were arrested on October 8. Both were booked on seven counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated criminal damage to property, and one count of illegal use of weapons.

According to arrest documents, investigators alleged that weapons involved in the incident included an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

The allegations remain subject to court proceedings, and the suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Southern University Community and Public Safety Concerns

The shooting attracted attention because of its proximity to Southern University’s annual homecoming activities, which bring together students, alumni, families, and residents throughout Baton Rouge.

Although police distinguished the incident from the official university celebration, the gunfire raised questions about safety in surrounding neighborhoods during large public gatherings.

Southern University and A&M College is a historically Black university with a longstanding presence in Baton Rouge and a strong tradition of community engagement.

Latest Updates on the Southern University Shooting Investigation

The October 9 announcement confirming all three arrests represented a major development in the investigation.

Authorities previously indicated that the victims’ injuries were not life-threatening. No deaths were reported in connection with the September 27 shooting.

Further details about the circumstances surrounding the confrontation, court proceedings, and possible additional developments may emerge as the case progresses.

For now, the Southern University shooting remains a significant Baton Rouge public safety story, with three suspects facing serious criminal charges following an incident that injured two men near the university’s homecoming parade.