Lafayette Man Arrested For Second Degree Murder After Deadly Child Custody Exchange Shooting

The Lafayette Police Department has identified both the victim and the suspect following a deadly shooting Monday afternoon that investigators say happened during a child custody exchange.

Police say Thomas George, 25, of Lafayette, died after being shot during an incident at an apartment complex in the 100 block of Alcide Dominique Drive.

Authorities have arrested Drailun Anthony, 23, of Lafayette, who has been booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center on one count of Second Degree Murder.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Victim Ran Before Collapsing Nearby

According to Lafayette Police, officers were dispatched around 12:01 p.m. Monday after reports of a shooting in progress at an apartment complex on Alcide Dominique Drive.

Investigators say George was shot at the apartment complex before running from the scene on foot into the 200 block of Rosewood Avenue, where he collapsed.

Responding officers located George, rendered medical aid, and he was transported to a local hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, he later died from his injuries.

Crime scenes were established at both the apartment complex and the location on Rosewood Avenue while detectives worked to determine exactly what led to the shooting.

Investigation Reveals Child Custody Exchange Was Underway

In Monday evening's update, Lafayette Police revealed the shooting occurred during a child custody exchange.

While investigators have not released additional details about what led to the violence, police say the incident serves as an important reminder for families who may be involved in potentially tense custody or visitation exchanges.

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Lafayette Police Remind Families About Safe Exchange Zone

Following the investigation, the Lafayette Police Department is encouraging parents and guardians to use its Safe Exchange Zone for child custody and visitation transfers.

The designated exchange area is located at the department's main station at 900 East University Avenue and is monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Police say the location provides a neutral, low conflict environment where parents and guardians can safely exchange children for scheduled visitations.

Officials hope the reminder encourages families to take advantage of the resource whenever there is concern about conflict or personal safety.

Investigation Continues

Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and additional information could be released as the case progresses.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Lafayette Police Department or Lafayette Crime Stoppers at (337) 232-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the LPD mobile app or the P3 Tips app.