Michael Otkins II, 20, was found seated in his car on East Merry Street near the Tickfaw town line in Hammond, Louisiana, after being shot multiple times. Emergency crews arrived on February 19, 2021, and he was taken to North Oaks Medical Center, where he later died; a family member said he had been shot six times.

Investigators identified 18-year-old Kareem Gatlin as a suspect. On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, Gatlin voluntarily surrendered at the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and was transferred to Hammond Police custody. He was booked on second-degree murder, obstruction of justice, illegal discharge of a firearm, aggravated obstruction of a roadway, and aggravated criminal damage to property.

The community continues to process the loss and the start of criminal proceedings. If anyone saw activity on East Merry Street that night or has information about the shooting, please come forward.