Kenner, Louisiana – A suspect has been pronounced dead following a Sunday SWAT standoff that left three Kenner police officers injured. The incident, which unfolded in the city of Kenner, Louisiana, led to a confrontation between law enforcement and the suspect, identified as Matthew Lathers.
Kenner Police Captain Michael Cunningham provided updates on the condition of the three officers who were shot during the standoff, stating that they are all in stable condition. Two of the officers have been discharged from the hospital, while one remains hospitalized but in stable condition.
According to reports, the Kenner SWAT team attempted to apprehend Lathers in connection with an earlier armed robbery and attempted murder. However, the situation escalated when Lathers opened fire on the officers, resulting in the injured law enforcement officials.
Following the exchange of gunfire, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office SWAT team intervened in the standoff. Sheriff Joe Lopinto confirmed that Lathers continued to fire at the officers upon their arrival, prompting law enforcement to retaliate. The suspect was fatally shot by a sniper from the SWAT team.
Authorities revealed that the incident began when Lathers allegedly targeted two individuals in a car outside a residence. It is believed that Lathers mistakenly thought the victims, who had just left a nearby church, were undercover police officers, leading to the violent altercation.
One of the bystanders caught in the crossfire was reported to be in critical condition, while the injured officers sustained gunshot wounds to various parts of their bodies. Fortunately, the injuries suffered by the officers were not life-threatening, with one officer narrowly avoiding vital organ damage.
The aftermath of the SWAT standoff in Kenner, Louisiana, has left the community on edge as law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the confrontation. As the injured officers recover from their injuries, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement in the line of duty.