BATON ROUGE, LA — Tragedy struck early Sunday morning in Baton Rouge as a woman lost her life and a man was injured in a shooting at a Highland Road apartment complex, according to the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD). The deceased has been identified as Kimberlyn Martin, whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence that has once again rocked a community already plagued by crime concerns.
The shooting occurred around 8:45 a.m. outside an apartment at Elevate at Highland, formerly known as The Hub. According to BRPD Deputy Chief William Clarida, both Kimberlyn Martin and an unidentified male victim were found with gunshot wounds—Martin having sustained a gunshot wound to the chest, and the male victim shot in the leg. Both were immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Tragically, Martin was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The male victim is currently being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
The Investigation and Community Response
Police have not yet released details regarding a possible motive or suspect in the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities were seen collecting evidence and speaking to witnesses at the scene throughout the morning.
East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore was also present at the crime scene but declined to give a formal statement until the investigation progresses. However, Moore’s presence underscores the gravity of the situation and the growing concern over persistent violence at this location.
“This is not the first time we’ve been out here. It’s heartbreaking,” said one resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “This is someone’s mother, sister, friend—gone in an instant.”
History of Violence at the Complex
This isn’t the first time the apartment complex has come under scrutiny. Following a September 2023 shooting, DA Moore had already raised serious concerns about the property, which at the time was still known as The Hub. He noted that his office had worked with the complex’s management to address the rising crime rate and had even considered legal action.
“Pre-COVID, we saw a lot of instances that were going on there. We filed a notice at that point, and they did take some action to rectify the problems. We saw a decrease at that point. Then COVID hit and things got out of hand all over,” Moore said during an interview last fall.
Since then, the complex underwent a change in management and was rebranded as Elevate at Highland, but Sunday’s shooting raises new questions about whether enough has been done to protect residents and visitors from recurring violence.
Remembering Kimberlyn Martin
Friends and family of Kimberlyn Martin are mourning her sudden loss. Known for her warm personality and kind spirit, Kimberlyn was described by loved ones as a loving woman who lit up every room she entered. Her death has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew her.
“She didn’t deserve this,” said a family member in tears. “She was starting to build a life. We just want answers, and we want justice for Kimberlyn.”
Call for Accountability and Safety
The latest incident has sparked renewed calls for increased security and accountability at apartment complexes across Baton Rouge, particularly those with a history of violence. Community advocates are urging city officials and law enforcement to take a hard look at how housing complexes are monitored and managed.
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP (7867) or online.
The community continues to reel from the tragedy, grieving the loss of a young woman whose life ended far too soon. A candlelight vigil for Kimberlyn Martin is being planned by her loved ones, and funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
Let me know if you’d like a follow-up piece with quotes from friends or a separate obituary-style tribute for Kimberlyn Martin.
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