Condolences Pour in for Fallen Lafayette Police Officer Killed in Jeanerette Standoff

Multiple law enforcement agencies across Louisiana are extending their heartfelt condolences to the Lafayette Police Department following a tragic standoff incident in Jeanerette on Thursday (7/25). The incident, which involved a hostage situation, resulted in the death of one officer and injuries to three others.

The officers' names have not been released at this time, but there has been an outpouring of support from law enforcement and citizens alike during this difficult time.

Thoughts, prayers, and condolences continue to flow for the fallen officer and those injured.

Heartfelt message from Lafayette Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet

Lafayette Mayor Monique B. Boulet released the following statement on the fallen officer, asking the community to join her in prayer for the fallen officer and all those affected by this terrible incident.

I am deeply saddened to share the news of the recent loss of one of our cherished community members and a devoted officer of the Lafayette Police Department. This rare and tragic event brings us great sadness and grief. Our hearts go out to the officer’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.

 To honor their courage and dedication, I ask that you join me in prayer and support for all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.

Press Release from Lafayette Police Department Sgt. Matthew J. Benoit:

UPDATE: OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING

Lafayette, LA – Early this afternoon, the Lafayette Police Department SWAT Team was assisting the Jeanerette City Marshals Office with a hostage situation in Jeanerette, LA. The incident began earlier in the day after the Jeanerette City Marshals Office attempted to serve an arrest warrant. The suspect, who had multiple warrants, resisted, prompting a request for SWAT assistance under our mutual aid agreement with surrounding agencies.

During the operation, the suspect fired multiple shots at law enforcement officers. Four Lafayette Police Officers were injured. Two were shot directly, and two others were struck by bullet fragments.

All officers were transported to an area hospital. Three are currently in good condition with non-life-threatening injuries, while tragically, one officer succumbed to their injuries.

The Lafayette Police Department mourns the loss of our colleague. We ask the community to keep these officers and their families in their prayers during this tragic time.

Details of the Incident:

An hours-long hostage situation in Jeanerette has ended with the death of one Lafayette police officer. The suspect is in custody, and three other Lafayette police officers were injured. One of the injured officers remains hospitalized, while the other two have been treated and released for minor injuries.

The incident occurred at a home on Hubertville Road near Martin Luther King Drive in Jeanerette, where gunshots were exchanged as officers forced their way into the trailer to rescue hostages. The two hostages, one of whom was a juvenile, are safe.

Lafayette Consolidated Government issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of the officers and the importance of keeping the public informed as the situation unfolds.

Statements from Involved Agencies:

The Jeanerette Marshal’s Office described the sequence of events, noting that the suspect, identified as Nyjal Hurst, 31, had multiple outstanding warrants for various charges including aggravated second-degree battery, home invasion, armed robbery, and more. Hurst barricaded himself inside the residence with two hostages, prompting the need for a coordinated response from several law enforcement agencies.

Louisiana State Police Troop I is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting as the Lafayette and greater Acadiana community stands united in grief and support, honoring the fallen officer's bravery and dedication to duty.

As more information becomes available, updates will be provided here.