Man killed by WM officer identified

A Ouachita Parish man, believed to be homeless, was killed Thursday night by a West Monroe police officer.

Raymond Keith Martinez was shot in front of a convenience store on the corner of North Seventh and Oakland streets at about 7 p.m..

The name of the West Monroe police officer involved in the shooting is not being released at this time. The officer was not injured and has been placed on administrative leave with pay during the investigation.

West Monroe Police Chief Jeff Terrell explained the reason for the slow flow of information on the investigation.

"These investigations take time," Terrell said. "They (OPSO) haven't spoken to the officer yet to get details. I know OPSO has talked to witnesses and will talk to more today and next week."

Terrell also said OPSO is reviewing surveillance video of the incident. According to OPSO spokesman Glenn Springfield, the video is evidence and can't be released at this time. Terrell said he expects the officer involved to be interviewed Monday.

"The investigation is ongoing," Springfield said. "There's a lot to put together. We don't discuss ongoing investigations."

According to Springfield, after the investigation is complete it will be submitted to the 4th Judicial District Attorney's office to determine the next steps.

West Monroe Mayor Dave Norris said he is concerned about the shooting, but has full faith in the investigation of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office.

Norris said the investigation was turned over to OPSO because a West Monroe police officer was involved. "I don't think it's ever wise to investigate yourself," he said.

Friday morning, those in the neighborhood were remembering the victim.

West Monroe resident Laurie Eley said she heard gunshots from her home and learned the victim was a man that believes she knew well.

"He was a sweetheart of a man. We called him Keith. I don't know his last name."

West Monroe Police were initially called to the scene but have turned over the investigation to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office. Louisiana State Police are assisting in the investigation.

"They unloaded the gun on him," Eley said. The victim has not yet been identified by law enforcement, but Eley described him as a white man who had been homeless. She said she transported him in her car at times.

No further details are available.

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