Baton Rouge Police Arrest Third Teen in Connection with October 4 Shooting Death
Baton Rouge police announced today the arrest of a 16-year-old juvenile, bringing the total number of suspects charged in the October 4 shooting death of 17-year-old Micah Booker to three.
According to police records, Booker was killed during an armed robbery on October 4. Video surveillance showed Booker with a group of four others, allegedly participating in the robbery, during which one victim was robbed at gunpoint and another was assaulted in an attempt to steal his firearm. The suspects fled the scene in a vehicle owned by Kaleb Raffety, 18, leading to the initial investigation and subsequent arrests.
Investigators identified Kobe Grandberry, 17, as another participant in the incident. Grandberry reportedly told police he was only involved in the robbery due to fear for his safety, stating he was afraid his friends would be shot while struggling for the victim’s gun. However, police records indicate Grandberry is seen on video pistol-whipping the victim, firing a handgun, and attempting to disarm him. The victim claims he fired at the assailants in self-defense after one dropped a firearm, which he then retrieved. Louisiana law regarding self-defense claims can be found here.
Raffety, Grandberry, and the 16-year-old juvenile are all facing charges of 1st degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, armed robbery, and illegal use of a weapon. This case highlights the increasing involvement of juveniles in violent crime, a growing concern for local authorities. Further details on crime statistics in Baton Rouge can be found on the Baton Rouge Police Department website.
Police officials stated the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses.