On the afternoon of May 4, 2026, 15-year-old Javion Semien was fatally shot near the intersection of Martin Luther King Street and Calcasieu Street in Ville Platte, Louisiana, while on his way to high school football practice. Javion was a ninth-grade student and a member of the Ville Platte High School football team; family and friends described him as a gentle giant who loved football and basketball and dreamed of a professional athletic career.

The Ville Platte Police Department, assisted by the Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office, opened an immediate homicide investigation. Authorities arrested a 17-year-old suspect; because of the suspect’s age the name has not been released. Officials said an AR pistol was allegedly used and the teen is being held in the Evangeline Parish Jail on a $2.5 million bond. Family members said Javion was an innocent bystander and the motive has not been disclosed.

The community held a benefit at the Martin Luther King Community Center to help with funeral expenses and to mourn together. Anyone who knew Javion or who has information about the shooting is asked to come forward.