Coach Sid Edwards Calls for Change After Juvenile Shooting in North Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, La.  — Following a drive-by shooting that injured three children in North Baton Rouge on Wednesday, local coach and community leader Sid Edwards voiced frustration and urgency, calling for an end to the violence plaguing the city.

“This is a regular occurrence,” Edwards said, speaking from the corner of 38th Street and Choctaw Drive, just miles from the scene of the shooting. “It happens far too often. The definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over and expecting different results. We need to change this.”

The shooting happened around 2:15 p.m. near a barber shop in the 1000 block of Swan Avenue, close to Scenic Highway and Scotland Avenue. According to sources, the drive-by left three children injured. One remains in critical condition, while the other two are in serious condition. All were transported to Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge.

Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing vehicles speeding away from the area. Police have not released details about the suspects or a possible motive.

For Edwards, the incident reflects a deeper crisis in the community. “Baton Rouge is not safe,” he said, emphasizing the need for immediate action and urging the community to come together in prayer. “The crux of this message is to pray for these children, pray for their families, and pray for everyone affected.”

Edwards, known for his commitment to mentoring youth in Baton Rouge, lamented the ongoing cycle of violence that disproportionately impacts young people. His comments resonated with many in the community, highlighting a collective desire for solutions to address crime and ensure safety for residents.

The incident adds to growing calls for intervention and long-term strategies to prevent further violence in the area. Authorities continue to investigate and have urged anyone with information to come forward.