A quiet Lafayette neighborhood was shaken Saturday afternoon after a domestic dispute turned deadly inside a home on Gard Circle. According to the Lafayette Police Department, a man was killed and a woman critically wounded in what investigators are calling a tragic case of domestic violence. The shooting occurred around 1:20 p.m. in the 100 block of Gard Circle, not far from East Gloria Switch Road and Evangeline Thruway.
When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. The man, later identified as 31-year-old Kevin Leblanc of Lafayette, was pronounced dead at the scene. A woman, who has not yet been publicly identified, was rushed to a local hospital where she remains in critical condition. Emergency officials say her condition is being closely monitored as medical teams work to stabilize her.
Detectives say the shooting stemmed from a verbal argument between Leblanc and the woman. What began as a dispute inside the home escalated quickly, according to police. Preliminary findings indicate that Leblanc pulled out a firearm during the argument and shot the woman. He then turned the gun on himself, dying from the self-inflicted wound before officers arrived. Police have made clear that no additional suspects are involved and that the situation was contained within the household.
The Lafayette Police Department emphasized that the case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the unpredictable ways disagreements can escalate behind closed doors. Authorities used the tragic incident as a reminder for anyone experiencing abuse or fearing for their safety to reach out for help. Local organizations, hotlines, and law enforcement agencies remain available for those in crisis or needing intervention.
Officers remained on Gard Circle for several hours after the shooting as they continued processing the scene and gathering evidence. Patrol cars lined the street, and investigators were seen speaking with neighbors in an effort to understand more about the events leading up to the violent encounter. Police say they are working to build a clearer picture of what happened inside the home before the shooting occurred.
As the investigation continues, the Lafayette community is left grappling with the emotional toll of the tragedy. Residents expressed sadness and shock, noting how quickly domestic arguments can turn catastrophic. Authorities plan to release additional updates as more details become available and continue urging the public to stay vigilant and seek assistance whenever safety is at risk.
