16-Year-Old McKenzie Rideau Tragically Dies at High School Graduation Party

McKenzie Rideau, a student from Lake Charles College Prep, was killed during a graduation party just after midnight on May 21, 2025. The shooting, which erupted at a short-term rental in a quiet neighborhood, has left family, friends, and an entire school community reeling.

The 16-year-old had been looking forward to her senior year and was already dreaming about graduation in 2026, but her plans were cut short in the early hours of last week’s Tuesday when gunfire broke out during a party in the University neighborhood.

Police responded to a call around midnight about a shooting at 525 Central Parkway. When they arrived, they found McKenzie with fatal injuries. The house was situated at the corner of Central Parkway and Dolby Street, and authorities reported that over 40 shots had been fired.

Lake Charles Police Chief Shawn Caldwell confirmed that dozens of 16 to 22-year-olds attended the party. Investigators are now working to identify those present and have named individuals of interest, though no arrests have been made.

The house had been described by neighbors as a short-term rental, not a usual party spot. Additionally, the area is typically peaceful, and the eruption of violence has shaken the community. Witnesses and party attendees are being questioned, and police have asked anyone with information to come forward.

As an almost senior, McKenzie actively participated in her school’s volleyball team and flag line. Her principal, Dr. Freddie Harrison, described her as “more than just a student.”

In a heartfelt message to the school community, he called her “a light,” someone who brought warmth and inclusion wherever she went. “Her radiant smile and kind heart made it easy for others to feel seen, welcomed, and accepted,” Harrison wrote.

Her mother, Heather Taylor, and father, Michael Rideau, are now mourning the loss of their daughter, who was born and raised in Lake Charles. Known to friends and family by nicknames like Tator and Boots, McKenzie had a vivid imagination, big dreams, and a personality that left a mark on everyone around her.

She was outspoken and vibrant, often joking about her singing skills and always ensuring her hair and lashes were on point—what she called being “slayed.”

McKenzie also loved music, especially artists like Tupac, Rod Wave, and Chris Brown. A vegan who enjoyed cooking, she imagined a future full of adventure and fame. At church, she had been baptized by Rev. Lee Wilson and occasionally sang during services at Riverside Baptist.

She was preceded in death by her younger brother, Prince Johnson, and her grandmother, Lana Fulwood. Her family’s grief is profound. They shared in her obituary that she was someone who “never held her tongue… but was also very respectful.” She was the kind of person who made people laugh and took pride in her appearance.

The 16-year-old is survived by her grandparents, parents, four sisters, five brothers, and a niece. Her extensive family also includes five aunts, four uncles, and her godparents.

What’s more, McKenzie considered her cousins—Anya, A’myrah, Amani, Jordan, Amari, Jamari, Chance, Emeri, Kamille, and Kamryn—close companions, along with “many many friends,” though she often joked she had none.

The family has set up a GoFundMe page with a statement that reflects their heartbreak. “She’s gained her wings where she’ll reunite with her little brother Prince,” they wrote. “We thank you all for the love and support… Anything is appreciated. Justice4McKenzie.”

The fundraiser, organized by Amyrah Godette on behalf of McKenzie’s mother, has already raised more than $7,300 toward its $10,000 goal. The service is scheduled for May 31 according to the website, though the statement explained that final arrangements are still pending updates from detectives.

In the wake of this senseless tragedy, friends, teachers, and family members have left emotional messages on her online obituary page.

As the investigation continues, the Lake Charles Police Department is urging the public to share any details that could help bring justice to her family.