Today
in Lafayette
Friday, May 16th, 2025
Good morning, Lafayette. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of May.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Nyjal Hurst, 31—indicted by a grand jury in the 16th Judicial District Court—is charged with second degree murder, 10 counts of attempted first degree murder, two counts of kidnapping and firearm offenses in connection with the July 25 standoff in Jeanerette that resulted in the death of Lafayette Police Sr. Cpl. Segus Jolivette. KLFY
- ➤ An Iberia Parish grand jury indicted Nyjal Hurst for second-degree murder in the death of Lafayette SWAT officer Senior Cpl. Segus Jolivette amid a July 25 hostage standoff in Jeanerette—he faces additional charges of 10 counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree kidnapping and firearm offenses while being held on a $19.5 million bond. The Advocate
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Lafayette Parish School Board voted at its May meeting to move the visual and performing arts academy from Comeaux High to Lafayette High, with the change set to start in the fall. Eighth grade students who had declined Comeaux and rising seniors will have options to re-enroll or adjust their schedule—seat availability may expand once Lafayette High’s enrollment is determined. The Advocate
- ➤ Lafayette Parish School Board met Thursday at 5:00 p.m.—discussing a proposal to raise new teacher starting salaries to $50,000 and boost current educators' pay through additional raises and incentive stipends. District leaders said the changes aim to attract quality educators and strengthen the school system. KATC
- ➤ The Lafayette Parish school board approved a new teacher pay scale in its May meeting that raises the starting salary to $50,000 (up from $47,607) and adds bonuses for attendance, serving in hard-to-staff schools, and student growth. The schedule will increase pay over time and aims to attract and retain good teachers amid challenges like declining enrollment and rising costs. The Advocate
- ➤ On May 15, the Lafayette Parish School Board approved moving the Performing Arts Academy from Comeaux High School to Lafayette High and raising new teacher pay to $50,000 a year. The proposal was first suggested last fall by a strategic planner—supporting the decision. News 15
- ➤ Today at the Central Fire Station, Fire Captain Clebe Stutes became the first recipient of the Terrence 'Buster' Ray Gahn Jr. Memorial Scholarship—an award that will support his pursuit of an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services. The scholarship honors Terrence 'Buster' Ray Gahn Jr. for his 34 years of service with the department and will be presented annually. KATC
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Jerry Luke LeBlanc retired from UL Lafayette where he served as vice president for Administration and Finance—he had a long record in Louisiana government serving as Commissioner of Administration and earning five terms in the House representing District 45 in Lafayette—marking the end of his distinguished public service career. KATC
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Artist Round Up: Zine Making Workshop
Time TBA — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Free to attend — Gather with fellow creatives for an inspiring zine making workshop themed around UFOs.
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Acadiana Brew HaHa
10 AM – 3 PM — Vermilionville Performance Center — $10-$25 — Celebrate the history and culture of Louisiana brewing with tastings, workshops, and a People’s Choice award.
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38th Annual Zydeco Extravaganza
12-11:30 p.m. — Blackham Coliseum — Cost information not provided — A lively celebration featuring the best Zydeco bands, food, and good times.
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Memorial Day Run for Heroes
8-11 a.m. — Moncus Park — Registration fee to support veterans — Kick off Memorial Day with a meaningful run honoring heroes.
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Grand Opening of Parkside Cottages
Join the Youngsville Chamber of Commerce and ReHive to celebrate the Grand Opening of Parkside Cottages on May 29th at 9am! Parkside Cottages is Youngsville’s first and only boutique cottage court community, located next to Foster Park and minutes from the Youngsville Sports Complex. https://www.parkside-cottages.com
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LWA Heartland Heat & Fan Expo
6:00-7:30 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an exciting night of wrestling alongside a vibrant expo featuring pro wrestling, cosplay, and local artists.
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Explore the Wonders at Lafayette Science Museum
8 a.m. — Lafayette Science Museum — Museum Admission — Discover interactive exhibits and planetarium shows that bring science to life.
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Dwight James & the Royals Concert
Time TBD — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticket info available — Experience a blend of Southern rock, blues, soul, and R&B from Louisiana's own Dwight James.
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Créole Culture Day Celebration
10 AM – 4 PM — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant contributions of Créole culture to the Acadiana region.
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State of the Arts Symposium 2025
1-8 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticket info available — Explore the intersection of arts and economy with expert panels and a keynote on the power of creativity.
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