KENNER, LA – A tragic incident unfolded in a Kenner suburb when a father, grieving over the recent murder of his 18-year-old son, allegedly shot his 3-year-old son before turning the gun on himself. Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley confirmed the toddler was found lifeless when officers arrived at the scene Wednesday night. The father, discovered unconscious outside the residence with a gunshot wound, remained in critical condition as of Thursday morning.
The father, identified as 39-year-old Melvin McClinton Sr., was reportedly battling emotional turmoil following the shooting death of his older son, Melvin McClinton Jr., on February 5. According to family members, McClinton Sr.’s emotional and anger issues had become increasingly aggressive since the loss of his older son.
The fatal shooting of the toddler occurred following a domestic dispute over the father’s disciplinary methods. “We believe the argument may have acted as a catalyst, escalating the situation into a violent act,” Conley explained.
In a related development, a 19-year-old suspect was apprehended shortly after the death of Melvin McClinton Jr. The suspect is now facing a first-degree murder charge.