Shreveport Police Arrested Suspect in Double Homicide
Lesabian Thomas was taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting of two men on Mansfield Road.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Violence
Shreveport police arrested Lesabian Thomas on October 8, 2026, for the double murder of David Young and LaJames Smith. The victims were killed after a suspect fired shots into their vehicle in the 6500 block of Mansfield Road.
Why it matters
The arrest follows a weeks-long investigation into the September 12 shooting that resulted in a fatal crash into a vacant bowling alley. Authorities utilized surveillance technology to identify the suspect and secure charges.
Lesabian Thomas faces two counts of second-degree murder. The investigation remains active as authorities process evidence from the scene.
The players
Lesabian Thomas
He is the suspect currently facing two counts of second-degree murder for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting.
Shreveport Police Department
This local law enforcement agency led the investigation and conducted the interviews that resulted in the arrest.
David Young
The 26-year-old victim was killed when his vehicle was targeted by gunfire on Mansfield Road.
LaJames Smith
The 31-year-old victim died from multiple gunshot wounds following the attack on his vehicle.
The details
On September 12, officers found the victims, 26-year-old David Young and 31-year-old LaJames Smith, after their BMW crashed into a bowling alley. Detectives identified Thomas as the suspect after reviewing footage from the city's Real Time Crime Center.
Timeline
September 12, 2026, at 12:09 a.m.: Officers responded to the shooting on Mansfield Road.
October 8, 2026: Police detained and arrested Lesabian Thomas.
Legal Context
The use of the Shreveport Real Time Crime Center to identify suspects in violent crime cases reflects an increasing reliance on citywide surveillance networks in local investigations. This technological integration allows detectives to track suspect movements and verify incidents with greater precision.
While the suspect is now in custody, the investigation remains ongoing as police continue to analyze evidence from the shooting site. Residents near Mansfield Road may see continued police activity as detectives finalize their report.
The takeaway
This case highlights the importance of city surveillance infrastructure in solving violent crimes that occur in high-traffic corridors. Local authorities continue to urge witnesses with information about the incident to come forward to assist with the ongoing prosecution.
Further reading
For more information on public safety, visit Violence.
