Baton Rouge Police Investigating Deadly Shooting on Government Street
BATON ROUGE, La. — A violent early-morning shooting has left a 19-year-old man dead and another person injured in Baton Rouge, as police continue searching for answers in the city’s latest act of gun violence.
According to the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD), the incident unfolded around 3:30 a.m. Monday, September 1, 2025, near the intersection of Government Street and South Foster Drive. Officers responded after reports of gunfire and discovered that a vehicle had crashed into the sign of a Smoothie King restaurant along Government Street.
Inside the car, police found 19-year-old Robert Forkner, who had been struck by gunfire. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Forkner succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead later that afternoon.
A passenger in the vehicle was also shot during the incident. Authorities say the passenger’s injuries are non-life-threatening, and they are currently receiving treatment.
The chaotic scene left visible damage at the Smoothie King property, where Forkner’s car came to a stop after the shooting. Police have not said whether the victim and passenger were targeted or if the shooting stemmed from another altercation.
At this time, no arrests have been made, and investigators are working to determine a motive and identify possible suspects. Detectives are reviewing evidence, canvassing the area for surveillance footage, and interviewing potential witnesses in an effort to piece together the events that led to the deadly encounter.
The death of Forkner has left family, friends, and community members grieving the loss of a young man whose life ended tragically and far too soon. Residents in the area have also voiced growing concerns about the continued rise in shootings that have plagued Baton Rouge neighborhoods.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Those with details are asked to contact the Baton Rouge Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit at (225) 389-4869, or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
As Baton Rouge continues to grapple with gun violence, Forkner’s death is yet another reminder of the devastating toll such incidents take on families and communities alike.