Second Suspect Booked After Fatal Lafayette Shooting
Authorities arrested 18-year-old Dawan Calais for his alleged role in a fatal robbery attempt on Surrey Street.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Violence
Police have booked 18-year-old Dawan Calais with second-degree murder in connection to the September 14 shooting death of 22-year-old Ephrim Rose. The incident occurred during an attempted robbery of a gun seller in Lafayette.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights the lethal consequences of attempted robberies during private gun transactions. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the fatal encounter on Surrey Street.
Dawan Calais and Asher Cormier, both 18, face second-degree murder charges following the death of 22-year-old Ephrim Rose. The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing as authorities process the booking evidence.
The players
Dawan Calais
He is an 18-year-old suspect charged with second-degree murder following the incident on Surrey Street.
Ephrim Rose
He was a 22-year-old man who died during an attempted robbery on Surrey Street.
Asher Cormier
He is an 18-year-old resident of Rayne who was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after allegedly firing his weapon.
The details
Investigators allege that Calais and Rose attempted to rob Asher Cormier during a planned gun transaction. Cormier allegedly fired his weapon toward Rose, resulting in the fatal shooting.
Timeline
September 14, 2026: Ephrim Rose died in a shooting on Surrey Street.
September 25, 2026: Dawan Calais was booked for second-degree murder.
Legal Context
The case follows the 2026 Lafayette gun transaction robbery, marking a stark example of how private weapon exchanges can rapidly escalate into lethal violence. Recent local crime trends suggest a rise in violent incidents involving interpersonal gun disputes in the area.
Residents are encouraged to contact Lafayette Crime Stoppers at (337) 232-8477 if they have information regarding the events on Surrey Street. The police presence in the area may have been adjusted to ensure community safety following the incident.
The takeaway
Private gun transactions carry significant personal safety risks that can quickly turn fatal. It is safer to conduct such exchanges in neutral, well-monitored locations or through licensed dealers.
Further reading
For additional context on regional criminal investigations, see Violence.
