LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA — Gunfire Erupts at Super 1 Foods, Leaving Two Dead in Tragic Shooting
LAFAYETTE, LA (June 18, 2025) — What began as a routine Wednesday afternoon at the Super 1 Foods grocery store on 215 Willow Street ended in tragedy as gunfire shattered the calm, leaving two individuals fatally wounded and the community in shock. According to the Lafayette Police Department (LPD), the victims were rushed to a nearby hospital following the shooting, but both were later pronounced dead.
The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m., sending shoppers and employees into a state of panic as shots rang out inside the store. Witnesses described a terrifying scene — customers ducking for cover, others running toward exits, and store employees ushering people to safety as the situation unfolded.
“I was in the dairy aisle when I heard it,” said one witness, a local mother shopping with her toddler. “Three or four loud bangs, then screaming. Everyone started running. I grabbed my baby and just ran.”
Emergency services responded within minutes. Lafayette Police officers, paramedics, and fire personnel arrived to secure the area, evacuate the building, and render aid to the victims. Both individuals, whose identities have not yet been publicly released pending notification of their families, were transported to a local medical facility, where they later succumbed to their injuries.
The Lafayette Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and Crime Scene Unit are actively working the scene. The store was immediately shut down and remains closed as investigators comb through evidence, interview witnesses, and review surveillance footage in hopes of piecing together exactly what led to the deadly confrontation.
While LPD has not confirmed whether a suspect is in custody or still at large, they have assured the public that the shooting does not appear to be a random act. Preliminary reports suggest the incident may have stemmed from a dispute between individuals who knew each other, but officials are urging the public not to speculate as the investigation remains ongoing.
LPD spokesperson Sgt. Robin Green addressed reporters outside the store late Wednesday afternoon:
“This is a heartbreaking day for our community. We’ve lost two lives in a senseless act of violence. Our detectives are working diligently to uncover every detail about what occurred and why. We will not rest until those responsible are held accountable.”
Community leaders and residents have expressed deep sadness and frustration over the shooting, calling for unity and support for the families of the victims. Local officials are also emphasizing the need for continued efforts to combat gun violence and address its root causes.
Mayor-President Josh Guillory issued a statement Wednesday evening:
“We are devastated by today’s events at Super 1 Foods. Our prayers are with the families of the victims and with everyone who witnessed this traumatic event. I’ve asked our public safety teams to offer all available resources to support the investigation and assist the victims’ families.”
Counseling services are being made available to Super 1 employees and to members of the public who may have been traumatized by the shooting. The grocery store chain also released a statement extending condolences and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement:
“We are heartbroken by the tragic incident that occurred today at our Willow Street location. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, our associates, and our customers. We are working closely with the Lafayette Police Department and will continue to provide support as needed.”
In the wake of the tragedy, local advocacy groups are renewing calls for stricter gun laws and improved mental health outreach. A candlelight vigil is reportedly being planned by community organizations to honor the victims and promote peace in the city.
As investigators continue their work, police are urging anyone with information — no matter how small — to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Lafayette at (337) 232-TIPS (8477).
For now, Lafayette is left grappling with another painful reminder of how quickly violence can erupt — even in the most ordinary of places. As the city mourns, it also waits for answers, accountability, and a path forward from this terrible loss.