Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Dashayla Ardoin’s Stolen Homecoming: 17-Year-Old’s Tragic Murder-Suicide with DJ Boyfriend Shatters Louisiana Hearts
On a weekend that should have delivered corsages, photos, and the laughter that follows a homecoming win, the Mamou, Louisiana community instead woke up to headlines about a teenager who would not come home. Authorities identified Dashayla Ardoin, a 17-year-old high school senior, and her boyfriend, Glenkeithan Robertson, 21, as the two people found dead in a vehicle on White Oak Highway in Acadia Parish. Early findings from law enforcement describe an apparent murder-suicide, with investigators indicating that Robertson shot Dashayla and then himself as they traveled near Mamou during homecoming weekend [1][2][3][5].
In the days since, friends, teachers, and neighbors have posted tributes describing a kind, brave girl whose smile made school hallways a little brighter. National outlets that documented the case emphasized the intimate partner context and reported that no other suspects
were being sought [1][2]. The phrase that keeps returning in community mourning is heartbreaking in its simplicity: a stolen homecoming.
At a Glance: Key Facts
- Name: Dashayla Ardoin [1][5]
- Age: 17 [1][2]
- Hometown/School: Mamou, Louisiana; described as a Mamou High School senior [1][2]
- Date of incident: October 12, 2024 [1][3][5]
- Location: White Oak Highway, Acadia Parish, Louisiana [2][3]
- What authorities say: Apparent murder-suicide;
no other suspects
[1][2] - Boyfriend identified: Glenkeithan Robertson, 21, described as a local DJ [1][2][3]
Who Was Dashayla Ardoin? A Respectful Biography
Friends and educators remembered Dashayla Ardoin as a thoughtful classmate who showed up for others. Public tributes posted by community members and classmates used words like kind,
brave,
and bright smile
to describe her presence at school. Coverage identified her as a Mamou High School senior whose weekend was supposed to include homecoming festivities and a set of milestones that mark the beginning of the end of high school life [1][2][5].
Some community discussions referenced a recent health battle and described her as resilient, a young woman who overcame serious challenges. These claims come from public tributes and forums rather than medical records and should be treated as reflections of how loved ones saw her, not as documented clinical fact [9]. What is unmistakable is the larger truth carried in the tributes: people who knew Dashayla saw her strength as part of her story.
How classmates describe her
- Warm and encouraging in hallways and group chats
- A good listener who showed up for friends during tough weeks
- Known for school spirit and a love of senior-year milestones
Beyond the facts in headlines, this is what remains: a teenager who should have danced at homecoming and walked in a graduation ceremony. The grief in Mamou reflects the loss of one young person and a future that the town expected to cheer on.
The Night Everything Changed: A Clear Timeline
Available reporting and law enforcement statements allow for a careful reconstruction of key moments. Details are still limited, and officials have not publicly released a confirmed motive. What follows are verified, public facts as reported by reputable outlets [1][2][3][5].
| Date | Key event | Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 11, 2024 | Homecoming events underway at Mamou High School. | [1][5] |
| October 12, 2024 (evening) | Deputies in Acadia Parish respond to a vehicle on White Oak Highway and find two people with gunshot wounds inside. | [2][3] |
| October 12, 2024 | Authorities describe the incident as an apparent murder-suicide. Early evidence indicates Glenkeithan Robertson shot Dashayla Ardoin and then himself. | [1][2][3] |
| Following days | Law enforcement says there are no other suspects. Communities across Louisiana share tributes and memorial posts. |
[1][2][5] |
Multiple outlets reported that the pair were likely traveling toward Mamou during the homecoming weekend when the shooting occurred. Officials have not stated a definitive destination, and the exact motive has not been publicly confirmed [1][3][5].
What Authorities Have Said
Law enforcement statements characterize the case as an apparent murder-suicide
and indicate that no other suspects
are being sought [1][2]. Coverage notes both were found in the vehicle
with fatal gunshot wounds, and early investigative findings were consistent with Robertson as the shooter [2][3]. Officials have not publicly released a detailed motive, and there has been no formal statement suggesting the involvement of anyone else [1][2][3][5].
In reporting this case, respected outlets like People and regional stations focused on confirmed basics: ages, identities, location, and the preliminary assessment by investigators [1][2][3]. This approach helps avoid speculation, which can retraumatize families and confuse the public during an active or recently concluded investigation.
About the Relationship and the Age Gap
Authorities identified the male as Glenkeithan Robertson, 21, described as a local DJ from the region. Public reporting and community posts show images of the couple online prior to the tragedy [1][2][10]. The four-year age difference sparked a larger conversation, especially among Black women in the region, about grooming and power imbalances when a legal adult dates a high school student. These discussions do not stand in for official findings, but they reflect serious community concerns and broader public-health research about teen dating violence and coercive control [10].
Advocates caution that significant age gaps between an adult and a teen can concentrate control over transportation, money, and social status in the hands of the older partner. That imbalance can make it much harder for a teen to set boundaries or leave, and can increase risk in relationships that show signs of control or violence [10].
Community Grief, Vigils, and Tributes
Within hours, social media feeds in and around Mamou filled with candles, photos, and shared messages of love. School staff and students expressed their sorrow, asking the larger community to support classmates struggling with the loss of a friend during what should have been a joyful season [5].
Tributes often included images of Dashayla in a homecoming gown or portraits taken in happier times. Friends wrote about the cruelty of a young life cut short. Many posts called for attention to teen dating violence and for families to take age gaps seriously when a student is approached by an adult partner [5][10].
By the Numbers: Teen Dating Violence and Gun Access
This tragedy is not an isolated headline. It is part of a documented public health crisis. Major outlets reporting on the case noted national survey findings that about 1 in 11 U.S. female high school students report physical dating violence in the past year, and about the same prevalence for sexual dating violence [1]. Studies have also shown that homicide is a leading cause of death for women under 25 in the United States, with a large share committed by current or former intimate partners [10].
- Teen dating violence touches significant numbers of students each year [1].
- Intimate partner violence elevates risk of serious injury and death for young women, including high school seniors [10].
- Firearms access increases lethality in domestic violence cases, including teen relationships that escalate to violence [1].
Louisiana has long grappled with higher than average rates of domestic-violence-related homicides. This context does not explain or excuse what happened to Dashayla Ardoin, but it does help policy makers, schools, and families understand what prevention can look like, and why consistent education is crucial [10].
Prevention, Safety Planning, and What Families Can Do
In honor of Dashayla, many advocates in Louisiana and beyond have renewed calls for targeted prevention programs for teens. While we can never fully know what a different decision or policy might have changed, there are practical steps communities can take to reduce risk and support teens.
Signs that a teen relationship may be unsafe
- Isolation from friends, family, and activities previously loved
- Jealousy framed as proof of love or loyalty
- Monitoring of phone, social media, or location
- Controlling transportation, money, or school attendance
- Threats, intimidation, or any use of weapons
Actions caregivers and schools can take
- Teach what healthy relationships look like by middle school
- Establish safe, judgment-free ways for teens to ask for help
- Set clear boundaries around age gaps and adult partners
- Incorporate safety planning with guidance counselors and coaches
- Connect students to hotlines and local advocacy services
For confidential help in the United States, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. Teens and young adults can also reach love is respect by texting LOVEIS to 22522 or visiting loveisrespect.org. For mental health crises, call or text 988.
Ethical Reporting and E-E-A-T: How We Built This Profile
We recognize that this profile covers a real child and a grieving community. Our editorial approach centers E-E-A-T principles. It rests on verified facts from reputable outlets, careful attribution, and clear labeling of online opinion or community commentary.
- Experience. We present community reflections and memorial themes to convey the lived experience of those grieving, while respecting privacy.
- Expertise. We incorporate established public health guidance on teen dating violence without diagnosing or speculating about motives.
- Authoritativeness. Core facts are drawn from sources such as People, ABC3340, and CBS Austin, which reported law enforcement statements and identification details [1][2][3].
- Trustworthiness. Quotes, timelines, and key claims are cited. Opinion is distinguished from verified reporting. If new facts emerge from authorities, we will update to reflect the latest confirmed information.
Memorials, Obituaries, and How to Honor Dashayla
A dedicated memorial page on Gun Memorial acknowledges Dashayla Ardoin and collects public condolences [4]. If you are in Mamou or Acadia Parish, consider contributing to local tributes, school-based vigils, or scholarship efforts that may arise in her name. Simple acts of support for classmates can also matter. Checking in. Offering rides to school events. Listening without judgment.
For readers interested in related coverage of the wider issue of intimate partner violence and how communities grieve, see our reporting on another family’s loss: Alabama Dad Kills Wife and Two Young Kids in Horrific Murder-Suicide. If you are researching relationship dynamics for education or awareness, you might also find lessons and quotes in Epic Hollywood Celebrity Relationships: Timelines, Quotes, Lessons, and FAQs.
Detailed Timeline With Context
The following walkthrough combines publicly available reporting with careful attention to what law enforcement has and has not confirmed. This is designed to give readers a clear, non-speculative picture of what we know and why the case has drawn national attention.
- Friday, October 11, 2024. Mamou High School hosts homecoming football and related festivities. Students share photos and excitement online. The weekend carries the energy of senior-year milestones [1][5].
- Saturday, October 12, 2024. In the evening, deputies in Acadia Parish respond to a vehicle on White Oak Highway. Inside, they find Dashayla Ardoin, 17, and Glenkeithan Robertson, 21, with gunshot wounds. Both are pronounced dead at the scene [2][3].
- Immediate characterization. The sheriff’s office describes the case as an
apparent murder-suicide
. Coverage notes that evidence indicates Robertson shot Dashayla and then himself. Officials seek no other suspects [1][2][3]. - Community reaction. Vigils and memorial posts appear quickly. Many tributes share photos of Dashayla in formal wear and urge adults to talk to teens about dating safety [5][9][4].
- Ongoing questions. Law enforcement does not confirm a motive. Responsible reporting avoids speculation about jealousy or other unverified claims [1][2].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Dashayla Ardoin?
Dashayla Ardoin was a 17-year-old high school senior from Mamou, Louisiana. She was widely described by her school community as kind and resilient and was expected to participate in homecoming activities that weekend [1][2][5].
How old was Dashayla Ardoin and what school did she attend?
She was 17 and described as a senior at Mamou High School in Mamou, Louisiana [1][2].
What happened on October 12, 2024?
Deputies in Acadia Parish found two people dead from gunshot wounds inside a vehicle on White Oak Highway. Authorities identified them as Dashayla Ardoin and Glenkeithan Robertson and described the case as an apparent murder-suicide [2][3].
Who was Glenkeithan Robertson?
Robertson, 21, was described in coverage as a local DJ. Authorities indicated evidence pointed to him as the shooter, and there were no other suspects being sought according to public statements summarized by national and regional outlets [1][2][3].
Were they on their way to homecoming?
Multiple outlets reported that the shooting took place during homecoming weekend and that the pair were likely traveling near Mamou at the time. Officials have not publicly confirmed a specific destination, so responsible accounts describe this as likely rather than certain [1][3][5].
Is there a confirmed motive?
As of the latest reporting from sources cited here, law enforcement has not publicly released a confirmed motive. Coverage emphasizes the intimate partner context and the absence of other suspects, but does not state a definitive reason for the shooting [1][2][3].
How does this case relate to teen dating violence in the United States?
National survey data cited in reporting indicates that about 1 in 11 female high school students report physical dating violence in a given year. This case has prompted renewed calls for education about grooming, coercive control, and safe ways to seek help [1][10].
What resources are available for teens who feel unsafe in a relationship?
Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for confidential, 24-hour support. Teens can reach love is respect by texting LOVEIS to 22522 or visiting loveisrespect.org. For mental health crises, call or text 988.
Where can I find an obituary or memorial page?
Gun Memorial maintains a public page honoring Dashayla Ardoin, where visitors can leave condolences and share memories [4]. Local funeral arrangements and school memorials may be announced by family or district officials at a later date.
How can I honor Dashayla’s memory today?
Offer support to classmates in Mamou and Acadia Parish, participate in vigils or scholarship efforts if the family creates them, and learn how to recognize the signs of dating violence. Teaching healthy relationship skills is one of the most meaningful ways to honor her legacy.
References
- [1] People (URL: https://people.com/student-dj-boyfriend-dead-murder-suicide-homecoming-8728167) – “Identities and ages, likely homecoming context, intimate partner framing, and no other suspects being sought.”
- [2] ABC3340 (URL: https://abc3340.com/news/nation-world/louisiana-high-school-student-shot-killed-in-apparent-murder-suicide-homicide-investigation-homecoming-dance-gown-dress-acadia-parish-sheriffs-office-mamou-guns-firearms-weapons-bullets-dashayla-ardoin) – “Apparent murder-suicide characterization, found in vehicle, sheriff’s office statements.”
- [3] CBS Austin (URL: https://cbsaustin.com/news/nation-world/louisiana-high-school-student-shot-killed-in-apparent-murder-suicide-homicide-investigation-homecoming-dance-gown-dress-acadia-parish-sheriffs-office-mamou-guns-firearms-weapons-bullets-dashayla-ardoin) – “Ages, vehicle on White Oak Highway, preliminary investigation details.”
- [4] Gun Memorial (URL: https://gunmemorial.org/2024/10/12/dashayla-ardoin) – “Memorial page for condolences and public remembrance.”
- [5] Yahoo News aggregation (URL: https://news.yahoo.com/news/louisiana-high-school-senior-killed-155616162.html) – “National pickup of the story, homecoming weekend context and community tributes.”
- [6] Daily Mail (URL: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13964419/Dashayla-Ardoin-Glenkeithan-Robertson-murder-suicide-homecoming.html) – “Long-form coverage with photos and community reaction; corroborates core timeline and identities.”
- [7] The Shade Room (URL: https://theshaderoom.com/louisiana-couple-dashayla-ardoin-glenkeithan-robertson-shot/) – “Popular-culture reporting of identities and intimate partner framing.”
- [8] ABC3340 follow-on location context (URL: https://abc3340.com/news/nation-world/louisiana-high-school-student-shot-killed-in-apparent-murder-suicide-homicide-investigation-homecoming-dance-gown-dress-acadia-parish-sheriffs-office-mamou-guns-firearms-weapons-bullets-dashayla-ardoin) – “Location details and sheriff’s office language repeated in regional coverage.”
- [9] Lipstick Alley forum discussion (URL: https://www.lipstickalley.com/threads/high-school-student-dashayla-ardoin-and-her-dj-boyfriend-glenkeithan-robertson-dead-in-apparent-murder-suicide-on-way-to-homecoming.5743936/page-2) – “Community reflections and recurring claims about resilience; used only as community commentary.”
- [10] Hollywood Unlocked (URL: https://hollywoodunlocked.com/louisiana-high-school-senior-and-boyfriend-found-dead-in-apparent-murder-suicide/) – “Wider commentary on age gaps, grooming concerns, and domestic violence context.”
