Toren Martin

Toren Martin was an 18-year-old Black man from Lafayette, Louisiana, who had attended Northside High School. His life was cut short on the night of June 25, 2024, when gunfire erupted at an apartment complex where he was present.

Just before midnight, the Lafayette Police Department received a 911 call reporting several shots fired in the 1000 block of Robley Drive. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Toren suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. They immediately began providing life-saving medical aid until he could be transported to a local hospital. Despite their efforts, Toren Martin succumbed to his injuries and passed away.

The investigation into the homicide began right away. At one point, police identified a vehicle that was possibly involved. When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the vehicle fled, leading to a police chase that ended in Vermilion Parish. Three individuals were apprehended and arrested on charges unrelated to the shooting.

As the investigation progressed, authorities identified a suspect in Toren’s death. The Lafayette Police Department arrested Kayden Wilson for his alleged involvement in the homicide. In August 2024, a grand jury in the 15th Judicial District Court handed down an indictment against Wilson, formally charging him with second-degree murder. An indictment signifies that a grand jury has determined there is sufficient evidence to bring a defendant to trial. As of August 2024, Kayden Wilson was awaiting trial.