A 17-year-old turned himself in to police following a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge that left one person dead and five injured. The incident stemmed from an argument between two groups in the food court. Authorities are still seeking another suspect believed to be connected to the event.
Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas Morse Jr. announced that Markel Lee, 17, surrendered to authorities on Friday and now faces charges of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and illegal use of a weapon. Lee is being held at East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. Morse said detectives worked through the night to secure an arrest warrant before Lee's surrender earlier in the day. Police have asked the public for help identifying another individual they believe was involved, including any cellphone video from the scene. ascended Episcopal School in Lafayette identified the fatality as senior Martha Odom, describing her as 'a joyful presence whose kindness and infectious enthusiasm brought light to all who knew her.' Two other students from the school, also seniors, were among the injured and are recovering, the school said on social media. Lafayette Mayor Monique Blanco Boulet confirmed that three victims were seniors from the school, located about 50 miles from Baton Rouge. The shooting occurred Thursday after an argument in the mall's food court, with several bystanders possibly among those shot, according to police. Baton Rouge Mayor Sid Edwards addressed those responsible, saying, 'We're gonna catch you,' and expressing confidence in law enforcement. The FBI's New Orleans field office stated it was responding to the incident alongside partners.
