Local Residents React to Gunfire Erupting at New Iberia Walmart, Police Identify Suspect Wanted for Shooting

New Iberia residents are shaken after gunfire erupted Tuesday night at a local Walmart store.

There were numerous Facebook updates and social media posts from shoppers and locals who were getting word about a shooting from family and loved ones inside the Walmart located in the 1200 block of East Admiral Doyle.

New Iberia Police confirmed the shooting, stating that one person was taken to the hospital and listed in critical condition and another is currently wanted.

On the evening of July 19, 2022, the New Iberia Police Department responded to a shooting in the 1200 block of East Admiral Doyle Drive.
Upon arrival, officers found the victim was transported by a citizen to the hospital. The victim was stabilized and airlifted to a Lafayette hospital in critical condition.
Detectives responded to the scene.
After reviewing video footage and speaking with witnesses, Detectives determined the suspect and victim were involved in an altercation, moments before the shooting.

While details surrounding the altercation that led to the shooting are unknown at this time, New Iberia Police identified 37-year-old Raphael DePass as a suspect in the shooting.

According to arrest warrants that have been obtained on DePass, he is wanted for:

• 2 Counts of Attempted First Degree Murder
• Illegal Carrying of Weapons
• Illegal Use of Weapons
• Possession of a Firearm in a Firearm Free Zone

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While police continue to investigate the shooting, locals sounded off about the incident on social media.

Haley Zapata said the shooting happened "15 feet" away from her family. She claims there were four male individuals arguing before one suspect (presumably DePass) shot the victim.

As word began to spread, shocked reactions began to pour in on social media.

Other eyewitnesses said that the shooting reportedly took place on the grocery side of the East Admiral Doyle Walmart store near the front door.

This photo showed police units parked outside of the store.

One person says they were just arriving to work when the shooting took place.

In the wake of the shooting, many New Iberia residents also commented about fearing for their safety due to a recent uptick in criminal activity in the area.

If you have any information on the shooting suspect or about the shooting, please contact New Iberia Police.