MODESTE, LA – A weekend trail ride event in Ascension Parish took a deadly turn Saturday evening when a heated dispute escalated into gunfire, leaving one man dead and another facing serious charges. According to Sheriff Bobby Webre, Anwar McKenney, 43, of Zachary, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and illegal use of weapons in connection with the fatal shooting of Brandon Cayette, 40, of Donaldsonville.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, August 2, at approximately 5:00 p.m., outside a residence along Highway 405, near the Sportsman Lounge in Modeste—a popular gathering spot in rural Ascension Parish. Deputies with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO) responded to a report of a shooting and arrived to find Cayette lying unresponsive, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.
What Happened: A Dispute Turns Deadly
According to APSO investigators, the violence stemmed from a dispute over paid parking at a trail ride event, a popular social gathering in southern Louisiana that often includes horseback riding, music, food, and dancing. Witnesses told deputies that tensions rose quickly as several individuals became involved in an argument, which turned into a physical altercation.
Among those involved were Anwar McKenney and Brandon Cayette, who authorities say knew each other prior to the event. During the chaos of the confrontation, McKenney allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Cayette multiple times before fleeing the scene.
Sheriff Webre’s office confirmed that McKenney was later located and detained for questioning by investigators from the APSO Violent Crimes Unit. During the interview, McKenney reportedly admitted to shooting Cayette during the altercation. A warrant was quickly obtained for his arrest.
McKenney was taken into custody and booked into the Ascension Parish Jail on charges of second-degree murder and illegal use of weapons.
Investigation Continues Amid Community Shock
The violent nature of the incident has sent shockwaves through the local community. Both men were familiar faces in the region—Cayette as a longtime resident of Donaldsonville and McKenney as a member of the Zachary community. Their deadly encounter at what was supposed to be a festive event has left many stunned and searching for answers.
“This is a tragic example of how quickly a disagreement can escalate into irreversible violence,” said a spokesperson for the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office. “Our thoughts are with the family of Mr. Cayette, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
The sheriff’s office has not released any further details about what led to the argument or whether any additional individuals may face charges in connection with the incident. The case remains under active investigation, and detectives are continuing to interview witnesses and gather evidence from the scene.
About the Suspect and Victim
Anwar McKenney, 43, has no publicly known history of violent crime, though authorities have not yet released information about any prior interactions with law enforcement. His motive in the shooting is still under investigation, and prosecutors will determine whether additional charges or sentencing enhancements may apply as the case develops.
Brandon Cayette, 40, was remembered by friends as a sociable and generous person with deep ties to the Donaldsonville community. His death marks yet another tragic example of gun violence cutting a life short in Louisiana, a state that continues to grapple with a high rate of firearm-related deaths.
Public Urged to Assist
As investigators continue to build the case, the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has relevant video footage from the area near Highway 405 and the Sportsman Lounge on the evening of August 2 to contact the APSO at (225) 621-INFO (4636) or Crime Stoppers at 1-877-903-STOP (7867). Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting in Modeste has left a void in the lives of loved ones and a community rattled by sudden violence. As Anwar McKenney awaits trial and the investigation unfolds, the incident stands as a stark reminder of the need for conflict resolution, community dialogue, and collective responsibility to prevent tragic outcomes like this.
This is a developing story.
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