ST. MARTINVILLE, La. (KLFY) -- The Mayor of St. Martinville, Jason Willis, has issued a statement on the fatal shooting at the St. Martinville High School homecoming football game Friday night on his official Facebook page.

"We understand the tragedy at this event has caused concern and anxiety among many in our community, and I want to reassure you that the safety of our citizens remains our top priority," Willis said. "The St. Martinville Police Department, in collaboration with the St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Department and Louisiana State Police are actively investigating the incident to ensure the security of our community."

The game was halted after a person was shot and killed in the vicinity just before kickoff.

Here is the mayor's statement in its entirety:

Dear Citizens of St. Martinville,

By now, many of you are aware of the tragic loss of a young man during our St. Martinville Senior High School (SMSH) homecoming event last night. First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

I would like to thank the SMSH Alumni Association for their hard work in organizing what was meant to be a joyous and unifying event. Their efforts created a well-planned gathering intended to bring our community together in celebration and support of our youth. I would also like to thank the St. Martin Parish School Board, Superintendent Fred Wiltz, SMSH Principal Jonathan Lane, along with SMSH staff members that all helped to make this event possible. Unfortunately, this occasion was disrupted by a shooting that has deeply affected us all.

We understand the tragedy at this event has caused concern and anxiety among many in our community, and I want to reassure you that the safety of our citizens remains our top priority. The St. Martinville Police Department, in collaboration with the St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Department and Louisiana State Police are actively investigating the incident to ensure the security of our community.

As we move forward, I encourage each of you to continue celebrating our city's rich traditions and to come together with resilience and unity. St. Martinville is known for its vibrant culture, strong community bonds, and enduring spirit. Let us not allow this tragic incident—something that could have occurred anywhere—to overshadow the positive spirit of this event or the pride we hold for our city.

Now is the time to support one another, cherish the moments we share, and uphold the unity that defines St. Martinville. Together, we can demonstrate that our community spirit remains unbroken, and we will continue celebrating with the joy and pride St. Martinville deserves. We are committed to taking all necessary measures to enhance security at local events, ensuring that everyone can continue to participate in and enjoy community gatherings without fear.

I pray for the safety of everyone in our community, and I ask that we all look out for one another. We remain committed to keeping St. Martinville a safe and welcoming place for all.

God Bless Us All!!!

St. Martinville Mayor Jason Willis

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