Louisiana House Bill 102 Upgrades Public Shootings to First-Degree Murder

Louisiana implemented House Bill 102 on August 1, 2026, upgrading the charges for specific public shootings and killings to first-degree murder. The legislation was enacted following an April 2026 shooting at the Mall of Louisiana food court, where 17-year-old Martha Odom was killed and five other people were injured.

The new law applies to intentional killings committed by individuals currently on bail, probation, or parole. It also elevates any shooting in a public space to first-degree murder if the act endangers three or more people. Attorney General Liz Murrill stated that the measure specifically targets gang violence and shootings in public areas.

East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore noted that the law simplifies the prosecution of public violence, regardless of whether the victim was the intended target. Police in Baton Rouge continue to investigate the April mall shooting.