Nayomie Marie Fontenot, a 14-year-old student at the James Ward Center for Excellence in Jennings, was fatally shot the night of May 7, 2025, while visiting a friend at a residence in the 1200 block of State Street in Lake Arthur, Louisiana. Described as bright and energetic, Nayomie’s death has deeply affected her family and the small-town community.

Authorities arrested 18-year-old Jonathan Simien of Lake Arthur and charged him with second-degree murder and illegal carrying and discharge of a weapon. He is being held in the Jeff Davis Parish Jail without bond. According to the Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff, Simien has not provided information about a motive or the events that led to the shooting. Investigators are still piecing together the circumstances and are vetting witness and family statements; officials say they are limiting public detail because multiple juveniles were present.

The community has organized fundraisers to assist with funeral expenses and to remember Nayomie. If anyone was at the gathering on State Street or has information about what happened that night, please come forward.