Damien Combs, 45, Killed by His 13 Year Old Son During School Drop-Off at Tangipahoa Alternative Programs in Hammond: Unexpected Departure
It is with profound sorrow and deep concern that the community of Hammond, Louisiana, is grappling with the devastating loss of 45-year-old Damien Combs, who died following a tragic and deeply disturbing incident that unfolded during a routine school morning. Authorities have confirmed that Combs was shot during a school drop-off outside Tangipahoa Alternative Programs on April 14, 2026, in an event that has left an entire community shaken and searching for answers.
According to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 7:39 a.m. on Crystal Street as Combs arrived at the campus with his 13-year-old son and a younger pre-kindergarten-aged child. What began as an ordinary school drop-off quickly escalated into a confrontation inside the vehicle. Witnesses reported a dispute between father and son, centered around the teen’s refusal to attend school.
As tensions rose, a school resource officer approached the vehicle in an attempt to help de-escalate the situation. Combs ultimately decided to leave the campus with both children still inside the car. Moments later, as the vehicle was pulling away, authorities allege that the 13-year-old produced a firearm and shot his father at close range.
Despite his injury, Combs attempted to maintain control of the vehicle, but it veered off course and crashed into a nearby residence on Crystal Street. The impact caused significant damage to the home, though no residents inside were harmed. Inside the vehicle were both children, including the young pre-kindergarten sibling, who fortunately was not physically injured.
After the crash, the situation escalated further as the teen exited the vehicle still in possession of the firearm and began walking toward the school grounds. A school resource officer intervened quickly, disarming the juvenile without further violence and preventing what officials say could have been an even greater tragedy. Law enforcement has credited the officer’s restraint and swift action with saving additional lives.
Combs was transported to a nearby hospital, where he remained in critical condition for several days before succumbing to his injuries. His death has been ruled a homicide.
The 13-year-old suspect was initially charged with attempted second-degree murder but now faces an upgraded charge of second-degree murder following Combs’ death. Authorities have confirmed the investigation remains ongoing, with key questions still unanswered regarding how the firearm was obtained and brought into the vehicle.
The younger child involved has been placed in the care of a family member and is receiving support services following the traumatic event.
Officials have emphasized that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court, and the juvenile justice process will determine how the case proceeds.
As Hammond and the wider Tangipahoa Parish community mourn, residents are left confronting the unimaginable reality of a family shattered by violence. Counseling services have been made available at the school, and support networks continue to grow for those affected.
Damien Combs is remembered by loved ones as a father who cared deeply for his children. His loss, and the circumstances surrounding it, have left a lasting emotional impact on all who have heard his story.