ST. LANDRY PARISH, La. —The St. Landry Parish community is grappling with grief after authorities identified Mareya Henry as the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred earlier this week in Opelousas. The tragedy has left family, friends, and residents heartbroken as investigators continue their search for answers — and for justice.
According to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the Opelousas area, where they discovered Henry suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite urgent medical efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her death has been ruled a homicide, marking another devastating blow to a community already weary of violence.
In a development late [day of week], authorities identified Kera Vitatoe as a suspect in connection with the shooting. Investigators are working tirelessly to uncover what led to the deadly encounter and have urged anyone with information regarding Vitatoe’s whereabouts to contact law enforcement immediately.
“This was a senseless act of violence that has taken a life and devastated a family,” Sheriff Bobby Guidroz said in a statement. “Our detectives are pursuing every lead to ensure justice is served for Mareya and her loved ones.”
As news of Henry’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in across social media. Friends and family members described her as a vibrant, kindhearted young woman whose energy and compassion touched everyone around her. “She had such a beautiful spirit,” one friend wrote. “It’s hard to believe she’s gone.”
Community members expressed both sorrow and frustration over the tragedy, calling for an end to the cycle of violence that has claimed too many lives in the area. “We’re heartbroken,” said one local resident. “We keep losing young people — daughters, sons, friends. It has to stop. We need to look out for each other before more families are torn apart.”
Local organizations have begun planning outreach and support efforts for Henry’s family, emphasizing the need for unity and healing during this painful time. A candlelight vigil is expected to take place later this week in Opelousas, offering the community a chance to gather, grieve, and celebrate Mareya’s memory.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about the case to contact the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers. Tips can be provided anonymously, and officials stress that any information — no matter how small — could be crucial in bringing closure to Mareya’s family.
As Opelousas mourns, many are choosing to remember Mareya not for the violence that ended her life, but for the light and love she shared in her short time on earth. Her absence leaves an unfillable void — but her memory, friends say, will live on in the hearts of those who knew her best.
“She deserved so much more,” one family member shared softly. “We’ll never forget her.”