Two Arrests Made in Weekend Homicide Case

It was on Saturday, November 16, at 6:03am that the Lake Charles Police Department responded to the area of Cline Street and Holmes Street in regards to a "welfare concern", said a media release. When officers arrived, they located a deceased female, who has since been identified as Kayla Jones, 27, of Lake Charles.

Further investigation from the Coroner’s Office determined Jones death was caused by homicide, while the cause of death is pending. Detectives also learned the victim was pregnant and that an "altercation ensued between the victim and suspects". Both suspects were "subsequently" placed under arrest and charged later that evening, said a second media release.

The first suspect, identified as Vernell Aronze Chatman Jr., 33, of Lake Charles is charged with 2nd-degree murder and 1st-degree feticide. His bond is set at $2.25 million.

A second suspect, identified as Larry Jermaine “LT” Chatman, 35, of Lake Charles is charged as a principle to 2nd-degree murder. His bond is set at $900,000.

As the investigation continues, more arrests are possible.

Anyone with information regarding the homicide is asked to contact lead investigators Detective Willie Fontenot at 337.491.1456 (ext. 5314), or Sgt. Billy Loving at 337.491.1456 (ext 5335).