According to Ville Platte Police Chief, Neal Lartigue, on August 15, 2017 at approximately 10:00 p.m. Officers responded to a report of shots fired North Fontenot and North Soileau Streets.  Officer’s arrived in the area and observed a black Camaro leaving the area at a high rate of speed.  Officer’s attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle but the vehicle did not stop until it reached Ortego Street.  Once the vehicle stopped a black male exited the vehicle with injuries to his leg.  The victim stated that he had been shot.  Officers secured the area, called for an ambulance and a Detective to respond to the scene. Officers received information that multiple shots were fired in the air and then towards the victim who was hit by one bullet in the calf area.  The victim was transported by Acadian Ambulance to Mercy Regional Hospital and was air lifted to Opelousas General for medical treatment of his injury. 

Nathan Thomas Jr. 18, of 1122 Edward Knotoe Thomas Street was arrested and charged with attempted second degree murder.  Thomas was booked into the Ville Platte City Jail and was transported to the Evangeline Parish Jail on a $100,000.00 bond.

Chief Lartigue reminds you to report suspicious and illegal activity by calling the Ville Platte Police Department at 363-1313.  Your call will remain anonymous.