Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of July.
Good morning, Shreveport.
Caddo Parish deputies are searching for armed suspect John Wayne Wright Jr. — a 46-year-old white male in a black tank top and tan pants last seen near North Shreve Baptist Church — after gunshots were heard during a domestic disturbance on Thursday night at 542 Jenkins Road; police advise residents not to approach him and to call 911 if spotted.
Shreveport Police arrested two men on July 14 at Castlewood Apartments when 53-year-old Raegan Walton hit a 37-year-old victim repeatedly and 48-year-old James Caples attacked him with a baseball bat—medical tests ruled out skull fractures and the victim is expected to recover after treatment at Ochsner LSU Health.
In June, multiple SUSLA organizations including SUSLA United, the AAUP and the SGA submitted a Resolution of No Confidence against Chancellor Dr. Aubra J.
Gantt over allegations of abusive practices — such as creating fear and ignoring student concerns. The groups urged a review of campus leadership to restore trust and uphold the university’s mission.
Staff Senate and the AAUP chapter at Southern University at Shreveport called for a leadership change after alleging misuse of authority—such as unauthorized surveillance and power-based coercion—and student government reported that Chancellor Gantt was unresponsive to concerns.
SU System President Dennis Shields said he would not remove her from her role, noting that she faced challenges including budget issues and declining enrollments.
Shreveport has launched an online dashboard that lets residents track major city infrastructure projects such as street repairs, water updates, facility renovations, and public safety improvements funded by the city's 2021 and 2024 bonds.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux announced the tool on July 11th and said it lets users report concerns directly through 311—giving the public a clearer view of the projects.
Shreveport’s Year 11 report said the city does not have enough money for its sewer repairs and now hopes to change the rules with federal regulators—officials met eight times since June 2024 and proposed a 10% rate hike and a $52 million bond measure.
The report also said the work may cost more than $1 billion and could hit low-income residents hard.
Tony Papa became a local legend at Jesuit in the 1960s for his speed and power despite a season-ending knee injury—he rushed for impressive yardage in many games and earned All-State honors before playing college football and coaching at Jesuit.
Now 77, he still works in insurance and fondly recalls the impact of his celebrated prep career.
Shane Pons Unplugged
6:30-10 p.m. — Casa Jimador — Free entry — Enjoy a laid-back evening with live music and stories from Shane Pons and Nick Tingle.
Summer Soup's On!
5-7 p.m. — Marilynn's Place — $20-$30 — Cool off with refreshing summer soups and compete for the best recipe.
Primus Onward & Upward Tour
8:00 – 9:30 PM — Shreveport Municipal Auditorium — Ticket pricing varies — Experience an electrifying performance by Primus and special guest MonoNeon during their summer tour.
Shreveport Card Show
9 AM – 3 PM — AcroSports and The Fieldhouse — Affordable entry — Explore 115 tables of sports cards, memorabilia, and collectibles for enthusiasts of all levels.
River Cities Triathlon
7-11 a.m. — Cypress Black Bayou Recreation and Water Conservation District — Limited spots available — Challenge yourself with a triathlon amidst the scenic beauty of Cypress Black Bayou.
Brit Floyd: WISH YOU WERE HERE 50
7:30-9 p.m. — Shreveport Municipal Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd's iconic album with breathtaking visuals and soundscapes.
Caddo Red River 3V3 Summer Showdown Soccer Tournament
12 PM – 1 AM — Lee Hedges Stadium — $250/team or $50/player — Experience fast-paced 3V3 soccer action designed for players of all skill levels.
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