Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s deputies are investigating a fatal Friday night shooting on Michael Lane in Sulphur.

Spokesperson Kayla Vincent said at about 11:30 p.m. deputies were dispatched to a residence on Michael Lane and located Gavin Demeritt, 22, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.

“Deputies immediately began lifesaving measures, but Demeritt was pronounced dead by emergency medical personnel a short time later,” Vincent said.

She said detectives learned four people were gathered in the room during the shooting. After speaking with witnesses, it was discovered Demeritt had been handling a revolver in a joking manner, manipulating the firearm carelessly.

“The firearm was then given to a 16-year-old juvenile, who reportedly continued to handle the gun in a similar manner,” Vincent said. 

Further investigation revealed the juvenile, who was likely under the impression the firearm was unloaded, began pulling the trigger, discharging the firearm and striking Demeritt.

“Following the shooting, a resident of the home, Gage McMichael, 20, Sulphur, removed two firearms, one of which was the one involved in the shooting, and hid them in an outdoor shed.  McMichael also removed a casing from the scene.”

On Saturday the juvenile and McMichael were both arrested.  The juvenile was booked into the Juvenile Detention Center and charged with negligent homicide; and possession of a firearm by a juvenile. McMichael was booked into the Calcasieu Correction Center and charged with obstruction of justice. His bond is still pending.    

Det. Alex Zaunbrecher and Willie Fontenot are the lead investigators on this case.