Ville Platte High School Releases Statement on Shooting that Shut Down Homecoming Game — ‘Ended in Tragedy’

UPDATE, 6:35 a.m. — Ville Platte High School released a statement on the events of last night, a shooting near the field that resulted in the game being canceled.

"What began as a beautiful Homecoming celebration ended in tragedy for so many," the school's administration wrote in a post on Facebook. "Shortly into the second quarter, a shooting in the community near the stadium led to the cancellation of our game and the eventual evacuation of all attendees. The safety of everyone was, and will always remain, our top priority."

The school also noted the loss of life that occurred during the shooting.

"We are devastated by the life lost to gun violence and the injuries sustained by others," the statement read. "This is not what Homecoming represents. On behalf of VPHS, we extend our heartfelt condolences and sincerest prayers to every family and individual impacted by this tragedy."

Ville Platte Mayor Ryan LeDay Williams also released a statement.

"It is truly heartbreaking to see some of our young people fail to recognize the value of human life," Williams said. "One reckless decision caused multiple families to be destroyed, an innocent life was taken, which will lead to another young man spending the rest of his life behind bars at angola. No disagreement or moment of anger is worth someone’s life or your freedom!"

ORIGINAL STORY

VILLE PLATTE, La. — The sound of gunfire abruptly shut down the Ville Platte Bulldogs' homecoming game on Friday night. The shooting, which occurred near the game, took the life of one victim and injured multiple others.

The Bulldogs were down 14-0 to Church Point early in the second quarter, according to fans at the scene as well as local news outlets.

EvangelineToday reported Friday night that the game was canceled after the gunfire disrupted the game. A subsequent report said three people were shot and one was deceased. The shooting occurred about a block away from the game, the outlet said.

This comes after the school posted a message to the community reminding students and families not to let competition and pranks go too far.

"Please be reminded that actions that cross the line from harmless fun to misconduct may result in disciplinary consequences, financial responsibility for damages, or even criminal charges," the school said in a post on Facebook. "Let’s remember that Homecoming is about unity, tradition, and Bulldog Pride—not behavior that could negatively impact others or jeopardize someone’s future."

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