“Firearm possession by illegal aliens poses an unnecessary, unacceptable, and preventable danger, and this case presents the tragic consequences that can result,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller.
“Louisiana’s state, local, and federal law enforcement partners are actively investigating these matters when they arise, and this Office will continue to work with those law enforcement partners to vigorously enforce federal gun laws to protect our children and our communities.”
According to court documents, this investigation began when a child was accidentally shot inside a residence in Leesville in June 2025.
When law enforcement arrived on scene, their investigation found that Mejia had illegally acquired the weapon and was storing it in his residence when a child accessed the firearm and discharged it, striking another child. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Mejia is unlawfully present in the United States and prohibited from possessing firearms.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Border Patrol, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division investigated this case.
An indictment and criminal complaint are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.