Following an intensive, days-long manhunt, the Hammond Police Department has officially released the identities of two primary suspects linked to the harrowing murder of 50-year-old Patricia Sheppard. The fatal shooting, which unfolded in the early hours of June 4 at a Chevron gas station on Highway 190, has stunned the community—not only for its sheer brutality but for the tragic circumstance of a completely innocent life lost.

The authorities have identified the two suspects as 21-year-old Reginald Steptoe and 26-year-old Jarvis Steptoe. Both individuals are currently at the top of the department’s most-wanted list. The public identification of these suspects marks a critical turning point in the investigation, and law enforcement is now calling for urgent community cooperation. Any information regarding the whereabouts or activities of Reginald and Jarvis Steptoe should be reported immediately to Detective Dustin Williams at 985-277-5755, or via the Tangipahoa Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 1-800-554-5245 to ensure these suspects are brought to justice.

A Tragedy Born of a Fatal Mistake

The incident began at approximately 1:15 a.m. on June 4, when police received frantic reports of gunfire near Westin Oak Drive. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Patricia Sheppard deceased, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds while seated inside a vehicle parked at the gas pump.

Initial investigations reveal that a white sedan pulled up alongside the victim’s gray sedan. Two assailants emerged from the white vehicle and unleashed a barrage of gunfire. Reports indicate that between 70 and 80 rounds were fired into the vehicle where Sheppard was sitting. Hammond Police Chief Edwin Bergeron Jr. stated that the department believes the attack was premeditated but fundamentally misdirected. “The lady in the car, Ms. Patricia, who has lost her life, was an absolutely innocent victim in this,” Bergeron affirmed.

Chief Bergeron further elaborated on the heartbreaking circumstances of the victim’s death: Ms. Sheppard was merely receiving a ride home from work from the driver of the gray sedan. The suspects had been stalking the vehicle and were targeting a different individual who had already exited the car. It was a tragic convergence of circumstances, as the Chief noted: “She was at the wrong place unfortunately at the wrong time.”

Evidence from the Stolen Vehicle and Community Anxiety

The vehicle utilized by the suspects has been identified as a white 2008 four-door Honda Civic, bearing license plate PJY050. The car is easily identifiable by its front passenger window, which was shattered when one of the suspects fired through it during the commission of the crime. Notably, the vehicle was reported stolen during a carjacking in McComb, Mississippi, the previous Tuesday.

The suspects are currently considered armed and extremely dangerous. The public is strongly advised not to approach the vehicle or the suspects if spotted, but to prioritize safety and contact 911 or the Hammond Police immediately. Surveillance footage captures the suspects fleeing the scene at a high rate of speed toward the west, heading in the direction of I-55.

A somber and anxious mood continues to grip the area surrounding the gas station. Terrence Selders, who works near the crime scene, expressed the community’s shared fear: “This is a nice store, but it just makes it difficult that you just don’t want to come out, especially at night.”

In response, Chief Bergeron pledged that his detectives are pursuing several promising leads and are actively hunting two to three individuals of interest. While the department believes it has established potential motives, those details remain confidential to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation. With unwavering determination, the Hammond Police Department has vowed to work tirelessly until those responsible for the senseless death of Patricia Sheppard are in custody.