Leslie Riley Jr, known as Jody to friends and neighbors, was a well-known presence in his South Baton Rouge neighborhood. The 66-year-old Black man was described by family as someone who brought laughter and joy, and by friends as one of the best. He had lived in the area for years and was sitting with friends at the intersection of Tennessee and East Polk Street on the afternoon of Sunday, July 24, 2022.

Around 3 p.m. a vehicle passed by and someone inside opened fire. Riley was struck and died at the scene; a 20-year-old man was also wounded and taken to a local hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Balloons and signs reading RIP Jody Riley marked the spot as the community mourned.

Baton Rouge Police detectives opened an investigation into the drive-by shooting. What details about motive or the shooter remain unknown? Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 344-7867.