Detectives attempted a vehicle stop of Mr. Willis on suspicion of drug dealing. Willis initially stopped but drove away. Detectives chased. Willis drove to an area of retail businesses, wrecked his vehicle and fled on foot. Witnesses say Willis pointed a gun at deputies and fired. A gun battle ensued. Willis was eventually killed. A gun was found near Willis' body with another gun in his pocket.
Victim's Name: Desmond Willis
Agency Responsible: Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office
Gender: Male
Age: 25
Race: Black
Date of Death: April 6, 2015
County: Jefferson
Cause of Death: Gunshot
Official Disposition: Justified
Criminal Charges: No known charges
Mental Illness: Unknown
Armed: Allegedly Armed
Weapon: gun
Threat Level: attack
Fleeing: Foot
Body Camera: No
Washington Post Database ID: 318
Geography: Suburban