Two 13-Year-Olds Arrested After 13-Year-Old Dies in Baton Rouge Shooting

“Joshua was a valued member of our Westdale family,” Westdale Middle School officials said in a statement Monday, mourning the 13-year-old killed in a Sunday night shooting in the Gardere Lane area, WBRZ reported.

The incident occurred around 8:38 p.m. Sunday when deputies from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a missing juvenile. After a search, the boy’s family located Joshua Bonilla Ortega dead in a field behind St. Croix Avenue at approximately 3:40 a.m.

Detectives determined that Ortega and two other juveniles were playing with a handgun and taking photographs when the weapon discharged, striking him. The two other juveniles fled the scene without seeking assistance, according to the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office.

Two 13-Year-Olds Arrested After 13-Year-Old Dies in Baton Rouge Shooting

Law enforcement has since arrested two 13-year-old males in connection with the shooting. The charges against the two minors reflect the circumstances of the discharge and the subsequent flight from the scene.

One juvenile faces charges of negligent homicide, illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile, and failure to seek assistance.
The second juvenile faces charges of obstruction of justice, illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile, and failure to seek assistance.

The investigation into the illegal possession of the firearm and the exact sequence of events continues.

Adolescente muere tras tiroteo en Baton Rouge, según la policía

Ortega was a student at Westdale Middle School. The school released a statement on Monday expressing the community’s grief over the loss of the student.

“Joshua was a valued member of our Westdale family. He was loved by many, and his presence will be deeply missed by his classmates, teachers, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Our hearts are with Joshua’s family during this incredibly difficult time, as well as with all those who knew and loved him. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”

To address the impact on the student body, school officials stated that I CARE will remain on campus to provide support to both students and staff.

Westdale middle school baton rouge la schoolphoto

The death of a student under these circumstances highlights the immediate and profound emotional toll taken on local educational environments when violence occurs within the community.