HOUMA, LOUISIANA – A tragic shooting occurred on February 1st, 2024, at approximately 5:45 pm in the 1100 block of Lafayette Street, prompting a response from the Houma Police Department. Upon arrival, officers discovered two victims, a 20-year-old male and a 14-year-old male, both suffering from gunshot wounds to the upper body. Both victims were rushed to a local medical facility for treatment, but unfortunately, the 20-year-old, identified as Terrance Scott, succumbed to his injuries. The 14-year-old is expected to recover.
The investigation revealed that the suspect, Terrance Simms, was employed at the Terrebonne Parish Juvenile Detention Center as a Juvenile Direct Care Associate. It was discovered that Simms had befriended the 14-year-old while the juvenile was at the detention center, and a conversation regarding the sale of a firearm had taken place in the days leading up to the shooting. The meeting to exchange the firearm took place at the location where the shooting occurred, and for unknown reasons, a confrontation led to an exchange of gunfire. Simms fled the scene but later turned himself in to authorities.
Following the investigation, Simms was arrested for one count of 2nd Degree Murder and one count of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder. He is currently being held at the Terrebonne Parish Criminal Justice Complex. The juvenile was also arrested for one count of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder and is being held at an out-of-parish Juvenile Detention Center.
The motive for the shooting is still under investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. They can contact the Houma Police Department or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers Bayou Region. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of gun safety and the potential consequences of illegal firearm transactions. The community is urged to work together with law enforcement to prevent future tragedies like this one.