Family of a southern student killed in case of mistaken identity appealed for more information

BATON ROUGE – It’s been a very long two months for Jayrick Washington’s family.

“I wait every day to wake up and hope it’s just a dream,” said his mother, Lynette Soulaire.

Jayrick was shot on the i110 and crashed near the Dalrymple exit just five days before his 19th birthday.

“My brother was about to go to work and he didn’t expect this to happen to him at all,” said his sister Deaneigh Washington.

The Jennings native worked at Walmart and earned a business degree from Southern University.

“He wanted to further his career in business and was very independent and outgoing,” his father said.

His death was initially reported as a road rage incident, but police now believe it was likely a case of mistaken identity.

“This particular shooting is, in our opinion, very different from most shootings we have investigated. This particular shooting was a random, isolated incident,” said BRPD Lt. Ljean McKneely.

Initial witness statements have not led to any arrests. Now the family is asking for further information.

“We just want justice,” his mother said.

At Southern’s graduation ceremony on Friday, Jayrick will be awarded his degree posthumously. His family will be there to accept on his behalf.