NEW ORLEANS, La — A road rage incident in Tangipahoa Parish left a pregnant 17-year-old critically injured after being shot in the head Sunday morning. Authorities have arrested 54-year-old Barry West of Tickfaw, who is now facing multiple serious charges.
According to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene around 9 a.m. Sunday on North Hoover Road near Ponchatoula. Investigators determined that West was involved in a confrontation with a Ford Expedition carrying the pregnant teenager and two other passengers. The vehicles reportedly tailgated and brake-checked each other, escalating tensions before West allegedly fired a shot into the SUV.
The bullet struck the teen in the front passenger seat, leaving her in critical condition. The driver quickly transported her to a nearby hospital, where doctors performed an emergency C-section. Authorities confirmed that the baby is currently stable in a neonatal intensive care unit, offering a small relief amid the terrifying incident.
West was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on charges including four counts of attempted second-degree murder, one count of illegal use of a weapon, and obstruction of justice.
During questioning, West claimed he believed the occupants of the Expedition had fired at him first. However, investigators found no evidence of other gunfire and confirmed that no weapons were inside the SUV, suggesting that the shooting was entirely unprovoked.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the extreme dangers of road rage and reckless behavior on the road. “This is a completely senseless act,” a sheriff’s office spokesperson said. “Two lives were placed in immediate danger because of someone’s reckless decisions.”
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting and are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. Law enforcement officials stress the importance of remaining calm during traffic disputes and call on drivers to report aggressive behavior to prevent escalation.
Community members have expressed relief that the baby survived, while also voicing concern for the teen and her family. “It’s horrifying to think about what could have happened,” said a local resident. “We’re grateful for the quick actions of the driver and the medical team, but this should never have happened.”
This case remains under active investigation, and authorities are committed to ensuring justice for both the teenager and her unborn child.
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