18-year-old Jaden Michael Ardoin of Port Barre
18-year-old Jaden Michael Ardoin of Port Barre faces first-degree and attempted murder charges after following two brothers in his vehicle and allegedly firing shots Tuesday night near Melville because the two routinely flirted with his girlfriend. St Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief Eddie Thibodaux said a high-speed chase ensued.
“The brother looked over to the other brother and said I was hit, and he grabbed the steering wheel which unfortunately he went off the road anyway and hit a tree and the vehicle caught fire. Of course, Ardoin fled the scene,” said Thibodaux.
Wade Edward Smith was killed, and James Preston Allen Vaughn is listed in stable condition.
Thibodaux said investigators were able to secure video footage from the gas station where the two brothers interacted with Ardoin’s girlfriend.
“The detectives were able to get the video from that gas station along with other service stations and have Ardoin’s vehicle following the brothers down Highway 105 before the incident happened,” said Thibodaux.
Thibodaux said it’s unfortunate that a jealous rage sparked such an incident that’s impacted so many lives.
“This incident actually turned out the loss of a person, the injury of another person, and now the shooter is now going to serve time in jail for a murder,” said Thibodaux.
Another arrest is expected today.
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