LAFAYETTE, La. — Louisiana State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred over the weekend in Lafayette.
On Saturday, September 7, 2024, just after 4 a.m., Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division were requested by the Lafayette Police Department to investigate an officer-involved shooting on Sybil Drive. The incident claimed the life of Rigoberto Sanchez, 27, of Lafayette, as maintained by Louisiana State Police.
According to Trooper First Class Peggy Bourque, the preliminary investigation revealed that an officer with the Lafayette Police Department was dispatched to the 100 block of Sybil Drive in reference to a residential burglary. While conducting the investigation, the officer located a suspect vehicle in the area. As the officer approached the vehicle on foot, the vehicle accelerated toward the officer. The officer discharged their service weapon and struck the driver, later identified as Sanchez. Sanchez suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The officer sustained minor injuries.
Investigators are working to process the scene and gather more information, Bourque said. Lafayette Police are investigating the initial burglary complaint. Louisiana State Police are investigating the officer-involved shooting. The Louisiana State Police Crime Lab assisted in processing the scene.
In accordance with LPD protocol, the officer who discharged their firearm will be placed on paid administrative leave, as maintained by Lafayette Police.
The incident remains under investigation. Updates will be provided as more information is released.
Anyone with information is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. You can anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting Isp.org and clicking on Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
