St. Martinville man arrested in Texas for homicide upon return home

STREET. MARTIN PARISH — The St. Martinville Police Department announced the arrest of Zackyric Gardner, 22, in connection with a homicide that occurred at the St. Martinville Senior High School homecoming game. Gardner, a resident of St. Martinville, was arrested in Texas after a warrant was issued for his arrest for second-degree murder. The arrest follows a coordinated effort by law enforcement agencies along the I-10 corridor, which led to Gardner being identified as a passenger in a vehicle stopped by Texas authorities.

Gardner has since been transported back to St. Martin Parish, where he was booked into the parish jail with bail set at a record $10 million. St. Martinville Police emphasized that this substantial bond serves as a statement by the city and parish against violent acts, especially those that take place at community events, such as school functions.

“This bond amount shows that St. Martinville and the surrounding community will not tolerate this type of violence, particularly at events where families and youth gather,” a department spokesperson said. The shooting incident at the high school homecoming game shocked many in the community, raising concerns about safety at school events.

St. Martinville Police urge anyone with additional information, including cell phone videos from that night, to come forward to assist in the investigation. The community is encouraged to contact St. Martinville Police Department detectives directly at (337) 394-3001.

This arrest is part of a broader effort by local police and community leaders to address growing concerns about violence in public spaces and ensure safety at school events. The high bond is seen as a deterrent and a message to those who may cause harm to community spaces.

As the investigation continues, more details may emerge about the circumstances surrounding the incident. For now, the community seeks to recover from the tragedy, in the hope that justice will give respite to those affected.

If you have any information or recordings from the night of the incident, please contact St. Martinville Police Department detectives at 337-394-3001.