🌱 Toddler Killed During Fairfields Ave Gunfight + BRCC Mental Health

Hey, Baton Rouge! Let's get you started this Thursday with everything you need to know going on around Baton Rouge today.

First, today's weather:

Periods of sun. High: 74 Low: 58.

Here are the top three stories in Baton Rouge today:

1. A toddler was reportedly killed on Tuesday night as a result of a neighborhood gunfight. The 3-year-old was sleeping at home on Fairfields Avenue, just off N Foster Drive, when a stray bullet from an ongoing gunfight struck and killed him, although investigators do not believe the child’s home was a target. The Mayor’s office released a statement on Wednesday, stating that this “tragic overnight killing of a young child … is a sad reminder that our community has a long way to go in addressing gun violence.” (WBRZ)
2. Baton Rouge Community College held a mental health discussion and benefit concert yesterday at the Magnolia Theater and Performing Arts Pavilion. The goal was to raise awareness about mental health issues. There were featured artists like Tamar Braxton, who took the stage after the panel discussion. (WAFB)
3. Two more suspected Banks Town Mafia members were arrested earlier this week by East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputies. Tijuan Thompson, 34, and Eric Walker, 32, are facing charges that range from drug possession to criminal street gang activity. Eight other members had previously been arrested on Apr. 6. (BRProud.com)

From our sponsor:

Today’s newsletter is brought to you in part by Ring, a Patch Brand Partner. We all know that Ring is the leader in video doorbells for home security. But did you know that Ring now makes a home security system that is getting raves from consumer electronic experts?

To learn more about Ring Alarm Pro, the system CNET called "the future of home security,” or to build your own custom system, visit Ring here.

Today in Baton Rouge:

• Make & Take Easter Craft At East Baton Rouge Parish Library (12:00 AM)
• Excel: An Introduction At East Baton Rouge Parish Library (10:00 AM)
• Family Storytime At Delmont Gardens Branch Library (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Want to help out the Baton Rouge animal community? Consider fostering some puppies, or look into adopting the beautiful, smiley Wilma! (Facebook)
• The Baton Rouge Police Department is hosting a Domestic Violence Panel at St. Mary Baptist Church on Apr. 21 at 6 p.m. Stop in to join the safe space and discussions with other victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. (Facebook)
• The Baton Rouge Area Chamber is offering help to businesses that may need economic development. Get the details here. (Facebook)

Loving the Baton Rouge Daily? Here are all the ways you can get more involved:

• Send a friend or neighbor this link so they can subscribe
• Get your local business listed in front of readers

Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll see you soon!

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.