The Silence of Thanksgiving: A Hero’s End

The usual joy of Thanksgiving Day was shattered by an unspeakable tragedy, as the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office (SJSO) lost one of its most respected members. Deputy Shaquille Guerin, a dedicated eight-year veteran of the force, was fatally shot in an off-duty incident in Waggaman, Louisiana, on the evening of Thursday, November 27, 2025. This profoundly heartbreaking event has sent a wave of shock and grief across the law enforcement community and the parishes he served. At 35, Deputy Guerin’s life, marked by public service and commitment, was cut short, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family and colleagues. The Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) confirmed that deputies responded to the scene on Marigold Lane around 5:30 p.m., where they found Deputy Guerin, a victim of gunfire. The subsequent arrest of his brother in connection with the crime only compounds the tragedy, turning a holiday of unity into a nightmare of loss and familial devastation.

Legacy of a True Public Servant

Shaquille Guerin was more than a badge; he was a model public servant whose dedication went far beyond the call of duty. Sheriff Mike Tregre of the SJSO captured the sentiment of the entire department, stating that Deputy Guerin “did his job well! He had the heart of a public servant… He carried and showed positivity.” Over his distinguished career, where he served in both the uniform patrol and detective bureau, he consistently demonstrated the courage and rapid thinking that define a hero. His legacy is cemented not just in the daily work of policing, but in specific, life-saving acts. In 2018, Deputy Guerin was formally recognized for his quick and efficient actions in applying tourniquets that saved a man’s life following a vicious attack, a testament to his professionalism and composure under pressure. His presence was a source of light and confidence for those who worked alongside him.

 Standing with the Guerin Family

As the community grapples with the complexity and pain of this loss, all focus must shift to supporting the family he leaves behind. Deputy Guerin is survived by his beloved wife, Roxanne, and their three children. His passing represents a profound personal loss to them and a significant professional loss to the SJSO family. Law enforcement agencies across the state have extended their deepest condolences and pledged their support during this unimaginably difficult time. As the investigation continues, we honor Deputy Guerin’s memory by recognizing his sacrifice, his courage, and his dedication to making his community safer. May his memory inspire us all to approach service with the same positivity and dedication he exemplified every day.