NEW ROADS – It’s the call that no mother ever wants to get. It’s the call that knocks you off of your feet and ensures you will never get back up the same. That is the call Brittany Shipley received informing her of a devastating accident that claimed the life of her 13-year-old son.
“They did say the amount of shots that were fired, there’s no way to even trace which one was the fatal one that struck my son,” Shipley said.
Blake Shipley, her second born son, had gone to his friend’s house, which is near the levee in New Roads. The boys were enjoying a day of fishing and riding a four-wheeler with a trailer attached. It was supposed to be a day of fun and relaxation, but it quickly turned into a nightmare.
Her son was hit by a stray bullet while riding his four-wheeler along the levee near Saizon Road. According to Sheriff Rene Thibodaux, the bullet came from a nearby group allegedly engaging in target practice.
“They were just playing on the levee, and there were two guys out there, and supposedly they were fighting with their guns,” Brittany recounted, her voice trembling with emotion. “My son was hit from 930 yards away. There were so many shots. It was an accident, but the boys are both charged with manslaughter.”
The incident has left Brittany Shipley and her family distraught and seeking answers. Her emotional distress is palpable as she speaks about the lack of clarity surrounding the investigation.
“I just want to know what really happened. I want justice for my son,” she said in a soft, but strong voice. “I’m a mother who’s lost her child, and I just feel like, maybe I’m wrong. I hope that I’m wrong, but I’ve been told by several people that they’re just gonna sweep it under the rug.”
Brittany says the toll this has taken on her, and her family, has been excruciating. “Losing a child, I mean, I lost my mind,” she shared.
As the investigation continues, the charges of manslaughter against the two people involved in the incident have sparked debate and concern. The court date had been pushed back but is currently set for August 26th, 2024.
“I mean, this happened November 18th, 2022. We haven’t gone to trial yet. I just feel like nothing is gonna happen. Honestly, like I just have this sick feeling that nothing is gonna come up,” she shared.
For now, Brittany Shipley is left to navigate the painful aftermath of the death of her middle son and holding on to memories of Blake while seeking the justice she believes he deserves. “He was just a boy, out there having fun with his friends. He didn’t deserve this,” she said, her voice breaking.
Shortly after the tragedy, Sheriff Rene Thibodaux released the following statement:
Tonight, an awful tragedy occurred within our parish. A thirteen-year-old boy’s life was taken from being struck by a bullet that was discharged from a firearm by individuals who were reportedly target practicing. I have taught gun safety to the youth in our parish for most of my adult life. I cannot stress the importance enough of knowing your target, the trajectory of a bullet, and what lies beyond that intended target. The family of this child will not be celebrating Thanksgiving or Christmas with their beloved boy. Please keep his family and our community in your prayers.
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