Downtown Lafayette Arrest Suspect Previously Linked To Gabby Sharp Case

LAFAYETTE, LA — New details are emerging following a tense late-night disturbance in Downtown Lafayette that led to an arrest just after Festival International events wrapped up for the evening.

Police confirmed that the suspect taken into custody, 19-year-old Jai’Quan Pierre of Crowley, is the same individual previously arrested in connection with the 2025 case involving Acadiana High School senior Gabriella “Gabby” Sharp.

Incident Unfolded In Downtown Lafayette

According to Lafayette Police, officers were on foot patrol in the 100 block of East Vermilion Street around 10:53 p.m. on April 25 when they encountered a large crowd gathered during a verbal dispute.

Authorities say Pierre allegedly pulled a firearm from his waistband and pointed it toward the crowd, causing panic as people fled the area.

An officer discharged their service weapon in response to what officials described as a life-threatening situation. No one was struck or injured. Pierre was arrested at the scene without further incident.

He now faces charges including aggravated assault with a firearm, negligent carrying of a concealed handgun, and terrorizing.

Connection To Gabby Sharp Case

Pierre’s name is one many in Acadiana will recognize. In November 2025, he was one of two men arrested in connection with the case surrounding the death of 18-year-old Gabriella Sharp.

Sharp, a senior at Acadiana High School, was found unresponsive at a convenience store on West Congress Street in the early morning hours of November 1. Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Pierre was charged at the time with video voyeurism, while another suspect faced a sexual battery charge. Authorities stated then that there was no indication either suspect caused Sharp’s death, which was believed to be medical-related pending further testing.

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A Case That Impacted Acadiana

Sharp’s death rocked Lafayette and the surrounding Acadiana communities, with many mourning the loss of the young student and following developments closely as the investigation unfolded.

The case remained under investigation as officials awaited final toxicology results to determine the exact cause of death.

Investigation Continues In Both Matters

The recent Downtown Lafayette incident remains under active investigation. As part of standard procedure, the officer who discharged their weapon has been placed on administrative leave.

Police are asking anyone with information or video from the disturbance to come forward.