Lake Charles, LA –
On November 13 at approximately 12:30 a.m. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to a bar in the 200 block of Highway 171 in Moss Bluff in reference to a shooting. When deputies arrived they located a woman suffering from a gunshot wound to her lower back.
During the initial investigation, it was discovered a physical altercation involving a large number of people ensued outside the bar at which time several shots were fired. Deputies located a handgun along with several casings in close proximity of the victim.
CPSO Deputies and detectives were able to identify and locate two of the shooters, Justin D. Wareham, 40, and John M. Lapoint, Jr., 39, both of Westlake. They were arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center. Wareham is charged with aggravated battery; and illegal use of a weapon or dangerous instrument while committing a crime of violence. Judge Tony Fazzio set his bond at $250,000. Lapoint is charged with aggravated assault with a firearm; and illegal use of a weapon. Judge Tony Fazzio set his bond at $200,000.
After further investigation, detectives have reason to believe the altercation and shooting was between members of the Bandidos MC, a recognized outlaw motorcycle gang, and members of the Misfits MC.
The victim was transported to a local hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. She is currently in stable condition.
CPSO Deputy Conner Coleman is the arresting deputy on this case. CPSO Detective Barrett Savoie is the lead investigator on this case.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.