Kentwood Community on Edge After Multiple Homicide Arrests

News Summary

Authorities in Kentwood have made several arrests linked to two homicide cases that have heightened fears of violence in the community. The arrests include a 19-year-old suspect charged with second-degree murder related to a January incident, and a 32-year-old man also facing murder charges after a separate shooting. Local officials are urging residents to report any suspicious activity as the investigations continue, aiming to restore a sense of safety in the area.

Kentwood authorities have made multiple arrests in connection with two recent homicide cases that have rocked the community. The incidents occurred against a backdrop of rising concerns over violence in the area.

The first incident unfolded in Kentwood on Saturday around 4:30 p.m. on Ridgebrook Avenue SE, near 60th Street SE. Local law enforcement officials reported that several units responded to the scene after multiple gunshots were heard. A nearby resident recalled hearing approximately five shots, prompting police to advise the public to steer clear of the area as investigations and operations were ongoing.

Among the arrested was 19-year-old Traviun Walton, who was taken into custody on April 22 for his involvement in a January 29 homicide. Walton faces serious charges that include second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and illegal use of a dangerous weapon. He is linked to the shooting death of 24-year-old Zy’Kerian Bickham, which occurred at the Five Star gas station following a confrontation that began as a verbal argument inside the store.

Additionally, two other suspects had been apprehended previously in this case and are currently charged as principals in the same murder. Their identities and roles in the incident have not been publicly detailed, but official records indicate that they also will face serious consequences for their involvement.

In another matter, 32-year-old Willie Wells was captured by K-9 Thor after a manhunt linked to a separate shooting incident. This arrest followed an elaborate chase that began when Wells fled a traffic stop on April 17. He jumped out of a vehicle and was subsequently tracked down near Highway 440 and Highway 1054.

Wells was wanted for first-degree murder, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The shooting in question occurred on April 5 and resulted in the death of 42-year-old Antonyo Famularo, who is believed to have had connections to a drug-related dispute.

Currently, Wells remains in the custody of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, where he awaits further legal action.

These recent events have raised significant alarm within the Kentwood community. Residents have expressed concerns regarding public safety and the increasing frequency of violent crimes. Local officials are working in tandem with law enforcement to address these issues and bolster community security. The results of these investigations are expected to continue developing as more details are revealed in the weeks to come.

Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding these homicides or any suspicious activities to come forward to assist with ongoing investigations. As the community grapples with these tragedies, officials remain focused on restoring a sense of safety for all residents.

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Additional Resources

• Fox 8 Live: Police Arrest Third Suspect in Connection with January Fatal Shooting in Kentwood
• WDSU: Kentwood Shooting Suspect Arrested
• WWLTV: Kentwood Murder Suspect Willie Wells Arrested
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentwood
• Google Search: Kentwood shooting