Haynesville Tragedy: Rochelle Lewis Fatally Shot by Estranged Husband Despite Protective Order; Children Witness Horror
HAYNESVILLE, LA — A devastating domestic violence tragedy has left the Haynesville community in mourning and disbelief after 48-year-old Rochelle Lewis was fatally shot by her estranged husband, 51-year-old Shamarcus Lewis, inside their family home late Tuesday night, July 1, 2025. The fatal shooting occurred even as Rochelle had taken legal steps to protect herself, including a restraining order that was meant to keep her estranged spouse away.
According to Claiborne Parish Sheriff Kenneth Walton, deputies responded to a distressing 911 call placed at approximately 10:24 p.m. from within the Lewis residence on Maple Street. Authorities arrived to find Rochelle Lewis with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by first responders to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Heartbreakingly, Rochelle’s two children — ages 13 and 15 — were in the home at the time of the shooting. One of the children, acting with remarkable courage and clarity amidst the chaos, made the emergency call that brought law enforcement to the scene. “That child’s bravery under unimaginable stress likely prevented an even worse tragedy from unfolding,” said Sheriff Walton during a press briefing Wednesday morning.
Shamarcus Lewis, who fled the scene immediately after the shooting, was apprehended several hours later following a manhunt that ended just outside Homer, Louisiana. He was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Claiborne Parish Detention Center. He faces charges including first-degree murder, violating a protective order, and endangering the welfare of a minor.
According to court records, Rochelle had obtained a protective order against Shamarcus in April 2025 following multiple reports of verbal threats, stalking, and a prior physical altercation. Friends and family say Rochelle had been attempting to distance herself from the abusive relationship for over a year and had recently begun rebuilding her life independently with her children. She worked as a licensed practical nurse at a nearby clinic and was known for her quiet strength, selfless heart, and devotion to her children.
“She did everything the right way,” said longtime friend and coworker Angela Mott. “She followed the law, got the protection order, tried to shield her kids. But the system failed her. It’s unthinkable.”
Neighbors reported hearing a commotion shortly before the gunshots rang out, followed by the panicked screams of the children. Investigators believe Shamarcus forced entry into the home in violation of the protective order. He was reportedly armed with a handgun, and initial findings suggest the attack was premeditated.
The tragedy has reignited urgent conversations about the effectiveness of restraining orders and the protections afforded to domestic violence victims, especially in small, rural communities. Advocates emphasize that while legal documents are important, they cannot by themselves stop an abuser determined to cause harm.
“This is a brutal reminder that protective orders are only part of the solution,” said Lisa Freeman, Executive Director of the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence. “We need coordinated community responses, better enforcement mechanisms, and stronger support systems to protect survivors — before it’s too late.”
The Lewis children, now orphaned by this horrific act, are currently in the care of close family members and are receiving trauma support and counseling. A GoFundMe page has been established by relatives to support the children’s immediate and long-term needs, including mental health care, education, and relocation assistance.
Rochelle’s death has left a profound void in the Haynesville community. Vigils are already being organized, with community members planning to gather at the Haynesville Baptist Church this Friday evening to honor her memory and stand in solidarity against domestic violence.
“She was the light of her family, a mother who gave everything for her kids,” said Reverend Michael Turner, who had known Rochelle since childhood. “Her loss is a wound this town won’t forget. We owe it to her to speak louder, act quicker, and protect the vulnerable among us.”
As Shamarcus Lewis awaits formal arraignment, Rochelle’s loved ones are calling not only for justice but for meaningful systemic change. Their message is clear: No one should lose their life trying to escape violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available.
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788.
Support is confidential, available 24/7, and offered in over 200 languages. You are not alone.