Ron Tate, Samiya McClain Obituary, Death – Following a tragic shooting that claimed the lives of a man and an 11-year-old girl in Laplace, St. John Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre provided an update on the investigation. According to Tregre, the shooting appears to be “not random” and is being treated as a targeted, premeditated attack. He also confirmed that the victims were related and publicly identified them as 50-year-old Ron Tate and his niece, 11-year-old Samiya McClain.
The incident occurred late Friday night while the family was preparing for a 3-year-old’s birthday party at Tate’s home on North Sugar Ridge Road. Investigators discovered that the family had been engaged in party preparations, including blowing up balloons, just before the tragic event unfolded. Sometime shortly before midnight, a vehicle pulled up to the residence. According to crime camera footage, an individual began shooting into the home, firing at least a dozen rounds.
Both McClain and Tate were struck by the gunfire. They were immediately taken to the hospital, but despite medical efforts, they succumbed to their injuries shortly after arriving. Additionally, a young woman inside the home was grazed by a bullet and also transported to the hospital. Fortunately, she is expected to recover from her injuries.
In a statement, Sheriff Tregre indicated that based on the evidence gathered, the investigators strongly believe the attack was intentional and targeted. This conclusion suggests that the family may have been deliberately singled out, although the motive remains under investigation.
Tregre officially identified the victims on Saturday, expressing condolences for the loss of young Samiya McClain and her uncle, Ron Tate. He also confirmed that Tate owned the home where the attack took place, further emphasizing the tragic loss for the family and the community.
Beyond the immediate victims, the gunfire also caused damage to the surrounding area. Bullets struck multiple cars in the neighborhood, including a vehicle belonging to Maryann Wancket, who lives across the street. Wancket recounted being awoken by a neighbor informing her that her rear window had been shattered by a bullet.
As of Saturday, no suspects have been identified in connection with the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to uncover any information that could lead to an arrest. Sheriff Tregre has urged anyone with knowledge of the crime to come forward. He provided contact information for the St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office and Crimestoppers, encouraging the public to assist by providing tips that could aid the investigation.
Community members are being asked to reach out to Detective Sergeant Vince Smith, the lead investigator on the case, or to use the Sheriff’s Office TIPS line or Crimestoppers for anonymous tips. The investigation remains in its early stages, and authorities are hopeful that public cooperation will help bring justice to the victims and their grieving family.