Mall of Louisiana Shooting Victim Identified as Ascension Episcopal School Senior
Seventeen-year-old Martha Odom, a senior at Ascension Episcopal School in Youngsville, was identified as the fatal victim in a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge on Thursday, April 23, 2026. Odom was among a group of Ascension seniors visiting the mall for their “senior skip day” when she was caught in the crossfire of a gunfight between two groups in the food court.
According to the coroner’s office, Odom died from a gunshot wound to the chest. Police announced the arrest of Markel Lee, also 17, who was booked with first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and illegal use of a weapon. Another victim, Donnie Guillory, remains in critical condition.
Odom was a writer, dancer, and Dr Pepper enthusiast who served as captain of the girls’ soccer team, editor of the student newspaper, and a teacher at her dance studio. She had won first place in the Lafayette Public Library’s “Writes of Spring” contest the previous year and planned to attend Sewanee: The University of the South to study English and creative writing.
Following her death, Ascension Episcopal School held a prayer service, and classmates left flower bouquets in her parking spot. The school described her as “a joyful presence whose kindness and infectious enthusiasm brought light to all who knew her.”
About the Incident
The shooting occurred around 2 p.m. In the Mall of Louisiana’s food court. Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse described the injured students as “innocent victims that got caught in the crossfire.” Two other Ascension Episcopal students were also injured in the incident.
A massive law enforcement response involving local, state, and federal officials followed the shooting. Police released a photo of a second suspect they believe was involved in the shooting.
Community Response
After Odom’s identity was made public, an outpouring of tributes followed from her classmates, teachers, and the broader Youngsville community. Ascension Episcopal School emphasized its focus on supporting students and families during this difficult time, stating it would not share additional details out of respect for the families involved.
“We ask our community to join us in holding our school in prayer during this incredibly difficult time,” the school said in a statement. “Our priority is the care of our students and school family.”
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