Share and Follow
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
A 17-year-old Louisiana girl who was shot in the head during a road rage incident has died, officials confirmed, but with her death came the gift of life.
Katelynn Strate of Ponchatoula was 28 weeks pregnant when Barry West, 54, allegedly critically injured the teenager who was 7 months pregnant.
Strate’s baby was delivered via emergency C-section and TPSO say the baby was born at 28 weeks, 3 pounds 11 ounces and is “continuing to do well” in an area neonatal intensive care unit.
“This is a senseless tragedy on Sunday morning with no logical reason for this family to be experiencing this heartbreak right now,” said Sheriff Gerald Sticker. “The public has to be patient and considerate when driving, at all times, and if there is a concern for your safety, call 911 and report the concern.”
West claims he believed the occupants of the vehicle in front of him shot first, but TPSO was unable to find evidence to confirm the shots were fired, and no weapon was found in the victim’s vehicle.
West has been booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on one count of Second Degree Murder, plus the three counts of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Illegal Use of a Weapon, and Obstruction, according to the sheriff’s office.
Officials also moved to clear up questions surrounding West’s possible ties to the department.
“To address questions regarding this suspect’s association with TPSO, records dating back as far as our system currently allows (2007) do not show any employees with the last name of West,” TPSO noted.
The pregnant teen was shot in the head during a road rage incident. (GoFundMe)
Strate’s family has made the decision to donate her organs, and officials say she has “officially become a donor hero.” The sheriff’s office urged the community to honor her legacy by rallying around her loved ones — offering prayers of comfort and strength as they face this heartbreaking loss.