A late-night traffic stop in Gonzales, Louisiana, turned into a dangerous situation involving gunfire and a high-speed chase, according to authorities. The incident happened Thursday night and is now under investigation by Louisiana State Police.
Traffic Stop in Gonzales Leads to Officer-Involved Shooting
A Gonzales Police Department officer stopped a vehicle around 10:45 p.m. on March 5 near the intersection of South John Street and Orice Roth Road in Ascension Parish.
Police say the driver was 21-year-old Anthony Talbert of Baton Rouge, and there was also a female passenger in the car.
During the traffic stop, investigators say Talbert allegedly reached toward a firearm inside the vehicle.
In response, the officer fired one shot from his department-issued weapon.
Driver and Passenger Grazed by Gunfire
According to Louisiana State Police, the single gunshot struck and grazed both Talbert and the female passenger.
Despite being injured, authorities say Talbert drove away from the scene.
Investigators say he fled at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour, ignoring several traffic signals and controls.
High-Speed Chase Ends With Arrest
After a short pursuit, officers were able to stop the vehicle and take Talbert into custody.
He was transported to the Ascension Parish Jail, where he faces several charges.
The charges include:
- Aggravated flight
- Reckless operation
- Obstruction of justice
- Possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony
Passenger Treated for Minor Injuries
The female passenger who was grazed by the gunfire was taken to a local hospital.
Authorities said her injuries were minor, and no officers were hurt during the incident.
Louisiana State Police Investigating
The Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations is now handling the case after the Gonzales Police Department requested assistance.
Officials say the investigation into the officer-involved shooting is still ongoing.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have information, photos, or videos related to the incident to contact the Louisiana State Police Fusion Center.
Tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-434-8007 or through the agency’s online reporting system.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Gonzales, Louisiana |
| Date | March 5 |
| Time | Around 10:45 p.m. |
| Suspect | Anthony Talbert, 21, Baton Rouge |
| Incident | Officer-involved shooting and pursuit |
| Injuries | Driver and passenger grazed |
| Charges | Aggravated flight, reckless operation, obstruction of justice, firearm possession |
| Status | Investigation ongoing |
