In Loving Memory of Damon Summerlin

In Loving Memory of Damon Summerlin

The community of Denham Springs and beyond is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Damon Summerlin, a young life taken far too soon in a tragic shooting in Lutcher, Louisiana. Damon was just 19 years old, with his whole life ahead of him, filled with dreams, hopes, and the promise of a bright future. His passing has left a deep and painful void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.

On Saturday night, around 11:05 p.m., deputies with the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting in the parking lot of Regions Bank in Lutcher. Damon and a 17-year-old boy, both from the Denham Springs area, were found suffering from gunshot wounds. They were rushed to the hospital in hopes of saving their lives. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, Damon tragically succumbed to his injuries. The teenage victim was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover physically, though the emotional impact of that night will likely linger for years to come.

Damon Summerlin was more than a statistic or a headline. He was a son, a friend, a brother, and a cherished member of his community. To those who knew him personally, Damon was known for his youthful energy, his smile, and the way he could light up a room with his presence. He carried the spirit of a young man still discovering who he was and who he hoped to become. Whether he was spending time with friends, sharing laughs, or dreaming about his future, Damon had a life full of potential that was cruelly cut short.

His family now faces an unimaginable loss—one that no parent, sibling, or loved one should ever have to endure. Friends remember Damon as someone who brought joy and authenticity into their lives, someone who mattered, someone who will never be forgotten. In moments like this, words often feel inadequate, but love, memories, and shared stories keep his spirit alive.

The tragedy of Damon’s passing also serves as a painful reminder of the devastating impact of violence on families and communities. A single moment of violence can forever change countless lives. As the investigation continues, many hope that justice and accountability will follow, and that meaningful conversations about safety, responsibility, and compassion will help prevent such tragedies in the future.

Today, we honor Damon Summerlin’s life—not just the way he died, but the way he lived. We remember his laughter, his youth, his potential, and the love he shared with those around him. His life mattered, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.

Rest in peace, Damon.

You will be remembered, you will be missed, and you will forever be loved