Joshua Taylor, 21, was shot and killed in the early morning hours of July 3, 2022, just outside Ponchatoula, Louisiana. The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office says Taylor called for help around 3 a.m., reporting he had been shot multiple times. Deputies found him with several gunshot wounds; he was taken to North Oaks Medical Center and later died of his injuries.

Investigators say the shooting occurred during what they described as a planned robbery of 24-year-old Devante Collins of Slidell. Taylor, accompanied by 18-year-old Breona Johnson and a 15-year-old girl, allegedly intended to drug and rob Collins. Taylor reportedly armed himself with a baseball bat; Collins produced a handgun, Taylor dropped the bat and fled on foot, and Collins pursued him and fired several shots that struck Taylor.

Three people were taken into custody: Collins was charged with second-degree murder and aggravated assault with a firearm; Johnson was charged with second-degree murder, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, and aggravated battery by poisoning; the 15-year-old runaway was also charged with second-degree murder and aggravated battery. Authorities pointed out that self-defense does not extend to pursuing and shooting a fleeing suspect who no longer poses a threat.

If anyone knows more about the events that led up to the July 3 encounter or knew Joshua, please share information that could help clarify what happened.