By BEN LUNDIN

Staff Reporter

LAPLACE – The festive atmosphere of New Years Day ended with a sad turn of events when Alfred Lee was found slain in the 700 block of Colony Drive in LaPlace.

Alger Sanders III allegedly fired one gunshot into the stomach of Lee at approximately 11:15 p.m. and immediately fled the scene, leaving the bloodied victim lying on his back, according to the St. John Sheriff’s Office.

Lee was rushed to the River Parishes Hospital at 11:20 p.m., but his wounds were too severe for available doctors to rescue him. He was pronounced dead at 11:41 p.m.

Lee told responding officers at the scene that Sanders III shot him, according to the St. John Sheriff’s Office. Sanders III was positively identified the following day and has been charged with second degree murder.

The case is still under investigation. Anyone with information should contact Detective Sgt. Ricardo Colas at (985)652-9514 or (985)652-6338.