In the quiet rural community of Modeste, Louisiana, a festive trail ride event turned tragic on the evening of August 2, 2025, when a heated dispute over parking escalated into a fatal shooting. Brandon Cayette, a 40-year-old Donaldsonville resident known for his warm smile and generous spirit, lost his life in a senseless act of violence that has left his family and friends grappling with grief. The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested Anwar McKenney, a 43-year-old from Zachary, charging him with second-degree murder and illegal use of weapons in connection with Cayette’s death. The incident, which unfolded outside a residence near the Sportsman Lounge on Highway 405, has sent ripples of shock through this close-knit region, raising questions about how a community celebration could end in such devastation.
The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, during a trail ride event, a cherished tradition in southern Louisiana that brings together friends and families for horseback riding, music, and camaraderie. According to authorities, the altercation began over a disagreement about paid parking at the event. What started as a verbal dispute quickly spiraled into a physical confrontation involving several individuals. Witnesses reported that tensions escalated rapidly, drawing in Cayette and McKenney, who were acquainted prior to the event. In the midst of the chaos, McKenney allegedly drew a firearm and shot Cayette multiple times. Deputies arrived to find Cayette unresponsive, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Bobby Webre, addressing the tragedy, described it as a stark reminder of how quickly disputes can turn deadly. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” he said in a statement. “Our focus now is on supporting the victim’s family and ensuring a thorough investigation to deliver justice.” Following the shooting, McKenney fled the scene but was later apprehended by the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit. During questioning, he reportedly admitted to firing the shots that killed Cayette. Authorities promptly obtained a warrant for his arrest, and he was booked into the Ascension Parish Jail, where he remains pending further legal proceedings.
The loss of Brandon Cayette has left a profound void in Donaldsonville, where he was a well-known and beloved figure. Friends described him as a man who lit up any gathering with his infectious laughter and willingness to lend a hand. A lifelong resident of the area, Cayette was a familiar presence at local events, often seen sharing stories and connecting with neighbors. His untimely death has sparked an outpouring of tributes, with community members gathering to honor his memory and support his grieving family. “Brandon was the kind of person who made everyone feel welcome,” said a longtime friend. “This doesn’t feel real.”
Anwar McKenney, the suspect, is not known to have a history of violent crime, though investigators have not disclosed whether he has had prior encounters with law enforcement. The motive behind the shooting remains under scrutiny, with detectives working to piece together the events leading up to the fatal confrontation. Authorities have indicated that additional charges could be forthcoming as the investigation progresses, particularly if evidence suggests others played a role in the altercation.
The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking public assistance to complete the picture of what transpired. Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or possesses video footage from the area near Highway 405 and the Sportsman Lounge on the evening of August 2 to come forward. Tips can be submitted to the sheriff’s office at (225) 621-4636 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-877-903-7867, with the possibility of a cash reward for information leading to further developments in the case.
This tragedy underscores the broader issue of gun violence in Louisiana, a state that consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for firearm-related deaths. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Louisiana reported a firearm mortality rate of 26.3 per 100,000 people in 2023, far exceeding the national average. The incident in Modeste has reignited local conversations about the need for conflict resolution strategies and community initiatives to address the root causes of such violence. Community leaders are calling for unity and dialogue to prevent further loss of life, emphasizing the importance of fostering safe spaces for gatherings like trail rides, which are meant to celebrate culture and connection.
As the investigation continues, the people of Ascension Parish are left to mourn a life cut short and reflect on the fragility of peace in their community. For Brandon Cayette’s loved ones, the pain of his absence is compounded by the suddenness of the violence that took him. The case against Anwar McKenney will proceed through the legal system, with prosecutors expected to examine every detail to ensure accountability. In the meantime, Modeste and its surrounding areas are grappling with the challenge of healing and moving forward, determined to honor Cayette’s memory by working toward a safer, more united community. This remains a developing story, with updates expected as authorities release additional information.