Good morning, Lake Charles.

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office reported multiple arrests made on July 7 for charges including theft, domestic abuse battery, drug possession, and contempt of court—some suspects facing bonds up to $2 million.

Clint Mott Jr., a 20-year-old man from Sulphur, turned himself in at 2:30 p.m. today after a fight led to the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Cortez Boston in DeQuincy on Fourth of July; he faces charges of second-degree murder and illegal use of a weapon with a bond set at $900,000 and further arrests are expected.

On July 6, 2025, Calcasieu Correctional Center booked several individuals from Lake Charles, Sulphur, Lafayette, and nearby areas on charges ranging from drug paraphernalia and domestic abuse to bank fraud, identity theft, theft, firearm offenses, and other related crimes — authorities detailed a wide spectrum of charges in the report.

A 23-year-old man fatally injured in an officer-involved shooting last week was identified as Diamonte Lafanette—he pointed his firearm at passing motorists near the intersection of 12th Street and 7th Avenue before exchanging gunfire with officers, Louisiana State Police Trooper Matt Gaspard said.

12 Years a Slave was filmed on Louisiana plantations and in New Orleans and won Best Picture in 2014.

The New York Times ranked it 51 on its list of top films — the only film on the list set in Louisiana — and director Steve McQueen credited local talent with enriching the movie.

The Lake Charles Symphony will bring Broadway magic to the community with its 'Bravo for Broadway' Summer Pops event at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 12 at the Lake Charles Event Center Colosseum—featuring Broadway legends Alli Mauzey, Dee Roscioli and Scarlett Strallen—while Executive Director Beth Dawdy said the survey-chosen theme will showcase 25 hit Broadway songs for local audiences.

Jalen Alexander, a McNeese DJ born with cerebral palsy, hosts the radio show 'Jammin with Jalen' on KBYS where he mixes diverse music styles including zydeco, R&B, reggae and metal.

His co-host Curt Cobert and producer Braylon Fuselier praise his deep song knowledge and inspiring spirit—listeners can catch the show from 10 to noon on Fridays.

ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions Onshore Storage sued Allen Parish officials on July 1 in Lake Charles over an ordinance that required permits for carbon capture and injection wells—arguing that the rule is redundant with state permits and will delay approved projects.

The company said it spent over $75,000 on surveys and risks losing an additional $75,000 if delays make it miss a June 23 permit competition while local officials plan a public hearing next month.

Lake Charles Symphony Summer Pops

7-10 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Check website for price — Experience a night of classical music with the Lake Charles Symphony Summer Pops.

Louisiana Rural Water Association Conference

9 a.m.-6 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Check Official Website — Engage in networking and educational sessions for water utility professionals.

Lake Charles Food Distribution

2-4 p.m. — 1225 2nd St, Lake Charles — Free entry — Register and bring your ID and proof of address to receive essential food supplies for families.

Cajun Music and Food Festival

All day — Burton Complex — Admission varies — Celebrate the rich culture of Cajun music and food at this annual festival.

Marshland Festival

July 25-26 — Lake Charles Event Center — Ticket info TBA — Experience the vibrant culture of the Marshland Festival with a weekend of entertainment and community spirit.

Hawaiian Luau Bingo Event

2-5 p.m. — Chasers Bar and Grill — Fundraising event — Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of bingo while supporting the Krewe of Illusions and keeping Mardi Gras traditions alive.