Opelousas Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Mareya Henry, Young Woman Killed in Fatal St. Landry Parish Shooting

Opelousas Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Mareya Henry, Young Woman Killed in Fatal St. Landry Parish Shooting

October 13, 2025 — ST. LANDRY PARISH, Louisiana — A wave of grief and disbelief has swept through the community of Opelousas following the tragic death of Mareya Henry, a young woman whose life was abruptly and senselessly cut short in a fatal shooting earlier this week. Her passing has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling, struggling to comprehend the loss of someone so full of promise, kindness, and light.

According to local authorities, the incident occurred in the early hours of the week in a residential area of Opelousas. Details surrounding the circumstances remain under investigation, but officials have confirmed that the case is being treated as a homicide. Law enforcement officers continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses as they work tirelessly to identify those responsible and bring justice to Mareya and her grieving family.

News of Mareya’s death has sent shockwaves through St. Landry Parish, where she was known as a warm, compassionate, and vibrant young woman who had an infectious smile and a gentle spirit. Friends describe her as someone who radiated positivity and made it a point to lift others up, even during difficult times. She had dreams, goals, and a future ahead of her — one that has now been heartbreakingly cut short.

Loved ones say that Mareya was deeply devoted to her family, often putting their needs before her own. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend — and to many, a source of inspiration and support. Those who knew her best remember her laughter, her love for life, and her ability to bring joy wherever she went. Her untimely passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

In the wake of the tragedy, the Opelousas community has come together to honor Mareya’s memory. Candlelight vigils, heartfelt tributes, and messages of love and remembrance have flooded social media as friends and neighbors express their condolences and call for an end to the violence that has taken too many young lives.

“Mareya didn’t deserve this,” one family member shared during a gathering. “She was a beautiful soul with so much ahead of her. We just want justice for her — and peace for our family.”

Community leaders and advocates have also spoken out, emphasizing the need for unity, healing, and continued efforts to reduce gun violence in St. Landry Parish and beyond. They urge anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, reminding the public that silence only deepens the pain for those left behind.

As the investigation continues, the memory of Mareya Henry will live on through those who loved her. Her life, though tragically brief, serves as a reminder of the fragility of time and the importance of cherishing each moment with the people we hold dear.

Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be announced by the family in the coming days. Meanwhile, the Opelousas community stands together — united in sorrow, remembrance, and the pursuit of justice for Mareya.

Gone too soon, but never forgotten — may her soul rest in eternal peace.