SHREVEPORT, La. — A family is shattered, a community in mourning, and yet another young life has been stolen by gun violence. The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office has identified 17-year-old Victor Samuel Jr. as the victim of a deadly shooting that unfolded late Tuesday night in Shreveport’s Cedar Grove neighborhood.
The shooting occurred on September 23, 2025, just before 9:40 p.m., in the 8300 block of Harding Avenue. According to authorities, Victor was found critically wounded after reports of gunfire flooded emergency dispatch. First responders rushed him to Ochsner LSU Health, where doctors worked desperately to save him.
But despite their efforts, Victor was pronounced dead at 11:06 p.m.
An Investigation in Motion
The Shreveport Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances of Victor’s death. Detectives are collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and combing through surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. As of Thursday afternoon, no arrests have been made, and police have not released details about potential suspects or motives.
An autopsy has been ordered to confirm the exact cause of death, which may also aid in the ongoing investigation. Officials are urging anyone with information to contact Shreveport Police or Crime Stoppers, reiterating that community involvement is often the key to bringing justice in cases like these.
Another Life Cut Short
Victor Samuel Jr. was more than just another number in Shreveport’s rising homicide count. He was a son, a student, a friend, and a young man full of life and promise. His death marks the city’s 29th homicide this year, and the 34th in Caddo Parish — grim statistics that reflect a deepening crisis of violence that many say must be addressed with urgency.
“He was just a kid,” said a family friend at a vigil held near the scene. “He had dreams. He had plans. He should still be here.”
Victor’s loved ones describe him as outgoing, funny, and deeply loyal — someone who could lift your spirits with a joke, who looked out for those around him, and who loved his family fiercely. His loss has devastated those closest to him, and the pain ripples far beyond his home.
Community Grief and Resolve
As tributes flood social media and flowers pile up on Harding Avenue, the community is grappling with more than just sorrow — they’re grappling with fear, exhaustion, and a growing demand for change.
City leaders and residents are calling for renewed investments in youth programs, mental health resources, and violence prevention initiatives. They say Victor’s death must not become just another headline — it must be a wake-up call.
“We can’t afford to lose another Victor,” said one local pastor. “We need justice, yes — but we also need healing. We need hope.”
A Family’s Plea for Justice
The Samuel family is now left to mourn a son whose life ended before it could truly begin. They are asking for privacy as they grieve, but also for help in finding whoever is responsible for Victor’s death.
“Someone knows something,” said a relative. “Please — speak up. Do it for Victor. Do it for every child still walking these streets.”
Final Reflections
Victor Samuel Jr. should have been starting his senior year. He should have been planning for college, dreaming big, and living freely. Instead, his family is planning a funeral, and a community is left to pick up the pieces.
As the investigation continues and loved ones prepare to say goodbye, one truth remains: Victor’s life mattered. His story is not over — it lives on in every memory, every photograph, every voice calling for peace in his name.
Rest in power, Victor Samuel Jr. You were loved, and you will never be forgotten.