Far too many shootings are occurring in Monroe LA, which are not limited to just one section of town, yet more south. No community is immune from violence, while its frequency is extremely noticeable. Many families are suffering due the shooting and violent crime which have southside residents wondering and on edge. Gun fire is heard at any given time in South Monroe, especially in the night. There are three factors which leads to shootings always, which are widely known in the hood. Other factors also contribute are family, mental challenges, poverty, education while the list is lengthy. Many times, black folks look for a safety net which was once there and now it's not. Many social programs that helped Blacks folks cope and deal with situations beyond their control have been eliminated or non-exist, that are desperately needed. Police cannot stop shootings; they only can react afterwards searching and apprehending suspects. According to police reports, a fatal shooting occurred on Lee Ave. in Monroe LA on Monday October 5 at 2:30 pm. the victim Tony J. Hicks 35, was found with a gunshot and later died from the shooting. Police arrested Suspect Murl R. Rodgers 40, who was charged with second degree murder at the Ouachita Correctional Center. There are three sides to every story. This was one side of this story. The Monroe Dispatch welcomes another or the other side to this story.

Murl R. Rodgers