LAFAYETTE, LA — A tragic murder-suicide outside a Johnston Street bar has left two people dead, as Lafayette police continue investigating what they believe to be a domestic dispute that turned fatal.
Authorities have identified the victims as Jonovan Dauphine, 30, of Sunset, and Samantha Breaux, 27, of Church Point. The two were reportedly in a long-term domestic relationship and shared three children.
According to Cpl. Ashley Wood of the Lafayette Police Department, the fatal shooting occurred in the parking lot of Legends Bar on Johnston Street around 8:15 a.m. on Saturday, May 3. Police say neither individual was a customer of the bar at the time, as the incident happened well after closing hours.
Preliminary investigations suggest the couple had been arguing in a vehicle parked outside the establishment. Investigators believe Dauphine shot Breaux before turning the gun on himself. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Surveillance footage from a nearby Legends security camera reportedly captured a bright flash inside the vehicle around the time of the incident, corroborating the sequence of events.
A McDonald’s employee working at the adjacent restaurant is believed to have witnessed the commotion and alerted authorities. Responding officers secured the scene and remained on site throughout the morning. The Lafayette Parish Coroner’s Office removed the bodies from the scene around midday.
Police confirmed that the couple’s children were not present during the incident and were safely located elsewhere at the time.
The case is being investigated as a murder-suicide rooted in domestic violence, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed or has information about the event to contact the Lafayette Police Department.
This tragic event underscores the continuing need for resources and support for those affected by domestic abuse. Local organizations are encouraging those in crisis to seek help through available hotlines and community programs.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for confidential support.