23-Year-Old Woman Fatally Stabbed on Old Hammond Highway in Baton Rouge; Suspect Later Sets Himself on Fire

BATON ROUGE, La. — A 23-year-old woman was killed early Thursday morning in a violent domestic stabbing on Old Hammond Highway in Baton Rouge. Authorities say the suspect — who allegedly rammed her car, dragged her out, and attacked her — later set himself on fire after crashing into another vehicle while trying to flee the scene.

The attack, which investigators describe as stemming from an ongoing domestic dispute, has left the community shaken and renewed attention on the growing number of domestic violence cases across Louisiana.

Morning Attack Turns Deadly

According to the Baton Rouge Police Department, the incident unfolded around Thursday morning near Old Hammond Highway, when the suspect reportedly intentionally struck the woman’s vehicle, forcing her to stop.

After colliding with her car, the man pulled her from the vehicle and stabbed her multiple times before fleeing the scene. Witnesses in the area reported hearing screams before seeing the suspect’s car speed away.

“It was clear this was a violent, targeted attack,” one Baton Rouge officer said. “She was ambushed, and it all happened in a matter of seconds.”

First responders arrived quickly, providing medical aid at the scene before transporting the woman to a nearby hospital. Despite emergency surgery, she died from her injuries shortly after arrival.

Suspect Crashes and Sets Himself on Fire

Following the stabbing, the suspect led police on a brief search before his vehicle was located nearby. Authorities say he crashed head-on into another vehicle and then set himself on fire inside his car.

Bystanders attempted to intervene but were forced back by the flames. The suspect was later pulled from the burning vehicle and taken to a hospital with severe burn injuries, but he also died from his wounds.

Officials have not yet released the suspect’s name, pending notification of family.

Ongoing Domestic Dispute and Protective Order

Investigators believe the attack was the result of an ongoing domestic violence situation between the victim and the suspect. According to preliminary reports, the woman had previously filed a protective order against the man due to prior incidents of violence and harassment.

Court records indicate multiple prior disturbances involving the pair, though it remains unclear whether the suspect had violated the existing protective order before the deadly attack.

“This is another tragic case of a protective order failing to prevent escalation,” said a local domestic violence advocate. “When abusers are determined to harm, victims need more than just a piece of paper — they need immediate safety and community support.”

Police confirmed that there had been recent reports of threats and that officers had previously responded to disputes involving the same individuals.

Community in Mourning

News of the killing spread quickly across Baton Rouge, with friends and family posting tributes on social media. Many described the victim as a kind, hard-working young woman with a “bright future” whose life was taken far too soon.

Local domestic violence organizations have since called for renewed focus on early intervention programs and protection enforcement for victims.

“Domestic violence remains one of the leading causes of homicide among women in Louisiana,” said the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence. “We need stronger enforcement of restraining orders and faster crisis responses.”

Police Investigation Continues

Baton Rouge Police say detectives are still piecing together the timeline of events — including how the suspect managed to evade initial capture and set his vehicle ablaze after the stabbing.

Officials confirmed that both vehicles involved in the crash were heavily damaged and that forensic teams are examining evidence from both the stabbing and the subsequent fire.

“This was an incredibly tragic event from start to finish,” said BRPD spokesperson Sgt. L’Jean McKneely. “We’re committed to uncovering every detail about what led up to this and ensuring justice is fully documented.”

The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office is conducting autopsies on both the victim and the suspect to confirm official causes of death.

Rising Pattern of Domestic Violence in Louisiana

Louisiana continues to rank among the top states for domestic violence-related homicides, according to recent FBI data. Advocacy groups say that despite available protection orders and shelters, resource shortages and slow legal processes leave victims vulnerable.

The Baton Rouge Police Department urges anyone experiencing domestic abuse to reach out for help before violence escalates.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (888) 411-1333
• Baton Rouge Iris Domestic Violence Center: (225) 389-3001

This case remains under active investigation.

If you or someone in your community has been affected by this tragedy, share your story or express your support on NapervilleLocal.com — where we continue to raise awareness about domestic violence prevention and public safety.