Homicide Investigation

“At 5:50am this morning a Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s patrol unit was dispatched to the 5300 block of Cypress Street, West Monroe, Louisiana in reference to a homicide investigation,” said Sheriff-Elect Jay Russell.

According to video evidence, Desmond West, 34, struck the victim, his wife, Katherine West, 35 with a vehicle. He then exited the vehicle and approached the victim, shooting her in the head with a small caliber handgun. West then returned to his vehicle and shot himself in the head with the handgun.

Katherine West had an active protective order that was filed with Jackson Parish on June 5, 2012. Katherine West died at the scene. Desmond West was transported to a local hospital where he later died.

The video evidence was obtained from the company security system where Katherine West worked.

Suspect: Desmond B. West, 2000 Old Minden Road, #3, Bossier City, LA

Victim: Katherine West, Jonesboro, LA

Both the victim and suspect’s bodies will be sent to Little Rock, Arkansas for autopsies.

“This case is open and under investigation. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available,” said Major Jason Pleasant, Investigation Division.