“I Was Nowhere Near the Scene” – Baton Rouge Mother’s Homicide Case Upside Down Mu-r-der Suspect’s New Alibi Filing Turns
A major new development has emerged in the murder case of Baton Rouge mother Teressa Calligan after the man accused of her 2024 killing formally claimed he was nowhere near the scene when the shooting happened.
David Catherine, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, has now filed a Notice of Alibi in court, arguing that he was at his home in neighboring West Baton Rouge Parish at the time Calligan was fatally shot.
The filing introduces a new layer of uncertainty as prosecutors continue preparing their case.
Defense Says Witness Can Confirm His Whereabouts
According to court records filed in the 19th Judicial District Court, Catherine’s attorney identified a woman who is expected to testify that the defendant was at his residence when the shooting occurred on September 15, 2024.
The defense also claims Catherine provided the witness’s information to Baton Rouge Police during the investigation, but alleges detectives never interviewed her.
That allegation has not been addressed publicly by prosecutors, and no judge has ruled on the claim.
Case Stems From 2024 Fatal Shooting
Teressa Calligan was found suffering from gunshot wounds on Fairfields Avenue in Baton Rouge on September 15, 2024.
Despite emergency medical efforts, she later d!ed from her injuries.
Following a months-long investigation, Baton Rouge Police arrested David Catherine in June 2025 and charged him in connection with the homicide.
Authorities have also previously alleged in court filings that Catherine has ties to the Bleedas street gang, although he has denied the charges and entered a plea of not guilty.
What an Alibi Filing Means
A Notice of Alibi is a formal legal filing that informs prosecutors and the court that the defense intends to present evidence showing the defendant was somewhere else when the alleged crime occurred.
It does not determine guilt or innocence, but it requires both sides to prepare for testimony supporting or challenging the claimed whereabouts.
Court records do not yet indicate when the judge will consider the newly filed alibi or whether additional hearings will be scheduled before trial.
Case Continues to Move Forward
With the new filing now before the court, the case enters another significant phase as both prosecutors and defense attorneys prepare for future proceedings.
Whether the alleged alibi witness ultimately strengthens Catherine’s defense—or is successfully challenged by prosecutors—will likely become an important issue as the homicide case moves closer to trial.
