Alexandria, LA – On Saturday, December 7, 2025, a community was shaken to its core when 20-year-old Christopher Howard Jr. lost his life in a tragic broad-daylight shooting. The incident occurred in the 3600 block of 6th Street, where officers responded at approximately 4:15 PM and found Christopher deceased from a gunshot wound. What should have been an ordinary Saturday afternoon instead became a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life can be, and how deeply violence continues to affect families and neighborhoods across the city.
By the time UrbanCast arrived around 5:30 PM, the area remained sealed off as officers from the Alexandria Police Department and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office continued their work. Fire crews were also on scene, offering support as investigators documented the area. Neighbors watched from porches and driveways—some in disbelief, others in tears, and all carrying the weight of witnessing another life stolen far too soon.
A Life Cut Short
Christopher was just 20 years old—an age filled with dreams, plans, and possibilities. Family and friends knew him as a young man with a future worth fighting for, someone whose presence brought warmth to those around him. His life, full of promise, was ended in a moment of senseless violence. Now, his loved ones are left with memories, unanswered questions, and a grief no words can fully express.
A Community in Pain
In the hours following the tragedy, emotions rippled through Alexandria. Fear, anger, sorrow, and frustration poured out from residents reacting to the news. Many shared their disbelief that such violence could erupt in broad daylight; others expressed anger at what feels like an unending cycle.
“This is just sad. Very sad. Can’t have a peaceful day without some heartless and soulless moron shooting someone,” one resident wrote. Another added, “You never know when someone is just going to start shooting or where.”
Some responses showed a numbness that comes only after witnessing tragedy again and again. Comments like “Imagine that,” and “That’s normal these days” reflected a deep, painful exhaustion—a community tired of mourning young lives taken too soon.
Others questioned whether leadership has done enough, while some pleaded for stronger measures to stop the violence. Yet beneath the frustration was a steady undercurrent of sorrow: “So sad,” “My Lord,” “When will they stop?” Many offered prayers for Christopher and for Alexandria as a whole.
Seeking Answers, Seeking Justice
Police have not yet released any motive or suspect information. The investigation remains active, and officers have not confirmed whether this shooting is an isolated incident or part of the troubling pattern of violence seen across the city in recent weeks.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. No detail is too small when it comes to helping bring justice to a grieving family and closure to a heartbroken community.
Alexandria Police Detective Division: 318-441-6416
APD Dispatch: 318-441-6559
Anonymous tips: Crime Stoppers of CenLa at 318-443-7867 or via the P3 Tipster App.
A Call for Healing
Today, loved ones mourn a son, a friend, a young man whose life mattered. While the investigation continues, the hurt remains real and heavy. The community waits for answers—hoping for justice, praying for peace, and yearning for a future where no more families must experience this pain.
As we remember Christopher Howard Jr., may his memory be a reminder of the value of every life and the urgent need for unity, compassion, and healing within Alexandria. May his family find strength in one another, comfort in cherished memories, and support from a community that grieves with them.
Rest in peace, Christopher. You are loved. You are remembered. Your story matters.
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