Three Kenner Police Officers Wounded, Suspect Killed in Louisiana Standoff

On April 23, 2023, a standoff in Kenner, Louisiana, left three police officers wounded and the suspect, Michael Lathers, 31, dead. Lathers, who was wanted for attempted murder and armed robbery, had shot two people outside a family member's residence on Farm Avenue earlier that day before engaging in the standoff with police.

According to authorities, after the initial shooting of the two victims, Kenner Police deployed a SWAT team that surrounded the residence. When SWAT officers entered the house to untangle a robot, Lathers suddenly appeared with a rifle and shot three officers. One officer was hit in the arm, another in the leg, and the third in the stomach. All three officers were able to escape and were taken to a hospital, where they were reported to be in stable condition.

The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office SWAT team then arrived on the scene. A sniper was able to fatally shoot Lathers, ending the standoff. The two victims who were shot outside the house earlier were believed to be going to or coming from church and had no known connection to Lathers.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the ongoing dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. It also raises concerns about the prevalence of gun violence and the challenges of apprehending armed suspects in residential areas.

Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley stated, "This was a very dangerous situation that could have resulted in more injuries or even deaths. Our officers showed great bravery in the face of imminent danger, and we are grateful that they are expected to recover from their wounds." The area where the shooting occurred remained an active scene for several hours as authorities conducted their investigation. The public was advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

Key Takeaways

• Standoff in Kenner, LA leaves 3 officers wounded, suspect dead
• Suspect Michael Lathers, 31, wanted for attempted murder and robbery
• Lathers shot 2 people before engaging in standoff with police
• SWAT team entered house, Lathers shot 3 officers before being killed
• Incident highlights dangers faced by law enforcement, gun violence concerns