Man dies of gunshot wound; person involved arrested for illegal narcotics

Assistant Chief Dustin Moeller stated that on March 20, 2019, at around 4:18 p.m., Highland Community Hospital Emergency Room notified the Picayune Police Department in reference to a gunshot victim who was transported to the hospital in a private vehicle. When detectives arrived at the hospital, they spoke with a witness who identified the victim as Lionel Lewis, age 18, of 808 Herrin Drive, Picayune.

The witness told detectives that Lewis and a friend, later identified as Ahmad Lathen, age 19, 601 Richards Street, Picayune, were playing with a firearm when accidentally discharged striking Lewis. The witness stated that he put Lewis in his vehicle and brought Lewis to the hospital. Lewis was later transferred via helicopter to University Medical Center in New Orleans where he underwent multiple surgeries due to his injuries from the gunshot.

Detectives obtained and executed a search warrant at Latham’s residence located at 601 Richards Street. At the residence, detectives spoke with Lathen and he turned the weapon over to investigators.

During a search of the residence, detectives located a large amount of a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana. Detectives later took Lathen into custody and charged him with Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute.

Lewis, the victim, died on Saturday due to injuries from the gunshot.

Assistant Chief Dustin Moeller stated the case is still under investigation.