The Bogalusa Police Department (BPD) is currently working diligently to investigate two separate shooting incidents that occurred within a short time-frame in the Bogalusa area. The first incident took place at Union Point Apartments, where BPD officers were swiftly dispatched to the scene to respond to reports of shots fired. As they worked to secure the area and gather evidence, a second distress call was received concerning additional gunshots heard around the vicinity of West 17th Street. Responding promptly to the second incident, BPD officers were soon provided with crucial information regarding a suspect vehicle description, intensifying their efforts to apprehend those responsible for these alarming events.
At approximately 01:55 hours, Sergeant Easterling of the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO) displayed courage and quick thinking during an intense pursuit that led to the arrest of three fugitives. The incident began when Sgt. Easterling, while scanning the Bogalusa Police Department radio, observed a white Chevy truck on Hwy 1075 matching the description of the vehicle involved in a recent shooting in Bogalusa.
Upon noticing the suspicious vehicle, the deputy promptly turned around on Hwy 1075 and attempted to initiate a traffic stop using emergency lights and sirens. However, the driver of the white Chevy truck refused to comply and instead accelerated, prompting a high-speed chase. Sgt. Easterling activated his body-worn camera to document the unfolding events and maintained constant communication with dispatch, providing updates on the pursuit's location.
During the pursuit, the vehicle ran several stop signs and reached speeds of approximately 90 MPH, posing a significant danger to public safety. Sgt. Easterling displayed professionalism and skill, maintaining control of the situation and taking appropriate actions to protect civilians and fellow officers.
The chase came to an end when the suspects' vehicle finally stopped on Hwy 16, just east of Kaiser Road in St. Tammany Parish. Sgt. Easterling, along with Officer CJ McClelland from Bogalusa Police Department, approached the vehicle and ordered all occupants to show their hands. Upon inspecting the back rear passenger door, the WPSO deputy discovered an AR-style rifle between the legs of one of the suspects, identified as Sincere Gatlin.
Sgt. Easterling proceeded to secure the front passenger, Daylon Jackson (19), and the driver, Erin Zeno Jr. (18), and a juvenile, all of whom cooperated with law enforcement. The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and Bogalusa Police Department commend Sgt. Easterling, Officer CJ McClelland, and all officers involved for their professionalism, bravery, and dedication to protecting the community. Their actions during this high-stress situation exemplify the values of the WPSO and BPD and showcase the unwavering commitment to upholding the law.
We extend our gratitude to the St. Tammany Sheriff's Office for their cooperation and support during the incident's resolution. This investigation remains ongoing.
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