A family gathering that was meant to celebrate gratitude, togetherness, and the warmth of the Thanksgiving season in Waggaman, Louisiana, ended in unthinkable tragedy on November 28, 2025. What should have been an evening of laughter, shared meals, and cherished memories turned into a scene marked by grief, shock, and community mourning after a local sheriff’s deputy, a devoted father of three, was fatally shot by his own brother.
The incident unfolded on Marigold Lane, a quiet residential street in the heart of Waggaman, a small town where neighbors often know each other by name and holiday gatherings are typically filled with comfort and familiarity. The events that evening have left a lasting imprint on the community, the sheriff’s office, and the family, illustrating how quickly life can change and how a single moment can shatter the most ordinary of celebrations.
The Victim: Deputy Shaquille Guerin
Deputy Shaquille Guerin, 35, had served with the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office for eight years. Known for his dedication, professionalism, and warmth, he had earned the respect of colleagues and community members alike. On Thanksgiving night, he arrived at a family gathering anticipating a quiet evening surrounded by loved ones.
Colleagues describe Deputy Guerin as someone who balanced courage on the job with a genuine kindness off-duty. He was a father, a husband, a brother, and a friend—roles he embraced with unwavering commitment. That night, however, he became the victim of a violent act within the walls of a family home, highlighting the unpredictability of life even in familiar settings.
The Incident
According to authorities, the alleged shooter was 32-year-old Darius Guerin, Shaquille’s brother. The conflict escalated during the family gathering, leading to the fatal shooting. Emergency calls quickly brought law enforcement to Marigold Lane, and first responders arrived amid chaotic scenes, marked by the sounds of sirens and the flashing lights of police vehicles.
Deputy Guerin was found gravely wounded. Despite immediate medical attention from fellow officers and paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The shock was compounded by the fact that the alleged shooter was a close family member, a detail that left the local community grappling with disbelief and sorrow.
The Pursuit and Arrest
Following the shooting, Darius Guerin fled the scene, prompting an urgent and tense pursuit by local law enforcement. Initial reports indicate that Darius attempted to evade capture both in a vehicle and on foot, creating further concern for public safety in the normally quiet neighborhood.
Authorities eventually apprehended him, and investigators recovered a firearm along his escape route. Prosecutors have since filed charges of second-degree murder. The case is expected to proceed through the courts, but the immediate focus remains on the grief and loss experienced by the family and the community.
Family and Community Impact
Deputy Guerin leaves behind a wife and three young children, whose lives have been irrevocably changed by the tragedy. The loss of a father and husband in such sudden circumstances poses profound emotional, psychological, and practical challenges for the family.
The St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office has expressed deep mourning, highlighting Deputy Guerin’s dedication, professionalism, and genuine kindness. Colleagues recall his positive influence, both on the job and in personal interactions, underscoring that his loss is felt not just within the family but throughout the law enforcement community and the broader town.
Community members, many of whom knew the family personally, describe the incident as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the unpredictable nature of human behavior. Neighboring households have shared shock and grief, struggling to reconcile the horrific events with the typically calm, peaceful atmosphere of Marigold Lane.
Broader Reflections on Tragedy
The Thanksgiving night shooting serves as a somber reflection on the intersection of family, mental health, and unexpected violence. While investigators continue to explore motives and circumstances, the focus for many is on supporting the victims, providing resources for coping with trauma, and fostering community resilience.
Such tragedies often leave long-term impacts on both immediate families and local residents. Questions of trust, safety, and familial dynamics linger in the wake of events that defy comprehension. Law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of mental health resources, community outreach, and ongoing support to mitigate the broader ripple effects of such incidents.
Moving Forward: Support and Recovery
As the investigation continues, community members and authorities alike have rallied to provide support for the Guerin family. Local organizations, counseling services, and fellow law enforcement personnel are engaged in offering assistance, both practical and emotional.
The St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office has established channels for colleagues and the public to honor Deputy Guerin’s memory, emphasizing that his dedication, courage, and kindness will not be forgotten. The incident also underscores the need for awareness and preparedness regarding family dynamics, mental health challenges, and conflict resolution, even in the most familiar settings.
Conclusion
The Thanksgiving night tragedy on Marigold Lane is a poignant reminder of how quickly joy can turn into heartbreak. Deputy Shaquille Guerin’s life, marked by service, dedication, and familial love, was cut short in circumstances that have left a community in mourning. As family, friends, and colleagues continue to process the loss, the hope remains that support networks, professional guidance, and communal solidarity can help the grieving process.
While the streets of Waggaman may have quieted since that fateful night, the echoes of this tragedy serve as a lasting testament to the profound impact of sudden violence, the vulnerability of even the closest relationships, and the enduring importance of community support in times of crisis.