On the evening of Saturday, February 15, 2025, at approximately 8:26 PM, the Lewisville Police Department received a distressing report of gunshots in the 1600 block of South State Highway 121 Business. Officers promptly responded to the scene, where they discovered 21-year-old Luis Tiant Kerby, born on August 21, 2003, seated in the driver’s seat of his vehicle, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by the responding officers, Kerby was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Lewisville Fire Department.

The Scene of the Tragedy

The 1600 block of South State Highway 121 Business is a bustling area in Lewisville, Texas, characterized by a mix of commercial establishments, including restaurants, retail stores, and service centers. On that fateful Saturday evening, the usual hum of activity was shattered by the sound of gunfire, sending shockwaves through the community.

Upon arrival, officers found Kerby’s vehicle positioned awkwardly in the parking lot of a local business. The driver’s side window was shattered, and multiple bullet holes were visible on the driver’s side door. The immediate area around the vehicle was cordoned off as a crime scene, with yellow police tape marking the perimeter. Forensic teams meticulously combed the area for evidence, collecting shell casings and documenting the scene with photographs and measurements.

The Victim: Luis Tiant Kerby

Luis Tiant Kerby, a young man of 21 years, was a resident of Lewisville. Born on August 21, 2003, Kerby was known among his peers and family as a vibrant individual with aspirations and dreams. Friends describe him as someone who had a passion for music and was often seen with his guitar, playing tunes that resonated with his experiences and emotions.

Kerby’s family, originally from the Dominican Republic, had settled in Lewisville seeking better opportunities. They were active members of the local community, participating in cultural events and community service. Luis, being bilingual, often volunteered as a translator at community centers, assisting those who faced language barriers.

Immediate Response and Life-Saving Efforts

The first responders on the scene were officers from the Lewisville Police Department, who arrived within minutes of the reported gunshots. Upon discovering Kerby with multiple gunshot wounds, the officers initiated CPR and applied pressure to the wounds in an attempt to stem the bleeding. Their training in emergency medical response was evident as they worked diligently to stabilize Kerby until paramedics from the Lewisville Fire Department arrived.

Despite the concerted efforts of both the police officers and the paramedics, the severity of Kerby’s injuries proved insurmountable. He was pronounced deceased at the scene, a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of gun violence.

The Investigation Begins

In the aftermath of the shooting, detectives from the Lewisville Police Department took charge of the investigation. Their initial steps involved securing the crime scene, ensuring that all potential evidence was preserved. Forensic specialists were called in to analyze the ballistic evidence, including the trajectory of the bullets and the type of firearm used.

Detectives canvassed the surrounding area, interviewing potential witnesses and gathering surveillance footage from nearby businesses. The goal was to piece together the events leading up to the shooting and identify any individuals who may have been involved or had information pertinent to the case.

Preliminary findings suggested that Kerby may have been involved in an altercation prior to the shooting. However, the exact motive remained unclear, and detectives were exploring multiple avenues, including personal disputes, robbery, or other criminal activities.

Community Reaction

The tragic death of Luis Tiant Kerby sent ripples through the Lewisville community. Residents expressed a mix of sorrow and concern, grappling with the reality of such violence occurring in their midst.

A candlelight vigil was organized at the site of the shooting, drawing friends, family, and community members who wished to pay their respects. Speakers at the vigil reminisced about Kerby’s contributions to the community and called for unity in the face of tragedy.

Local leaders and activists seized the moment to address broader issues of gun violence and community safety. Town hall meetings were scheduled to discuss preventive measures, and there was a renewed push for community policing initiatives to foster trust and collaboration between residents and law enforcement.

Appeal for Information

The Lewisville Police Department has been proactive in seeking assistance from the public to advance the investigation. Detective Jordan Potter, a seasoned investigator with a track record of solving complex cases, has been assigned as the lead detective.

In a public statement, Detective Potter emphasized the importance of community involvement: “We believe that someone, somewhere, has information that could be crucial to this investigation. No detail is too small, and we urge anyone with information to come forward.”

Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Detective Potter directly at 972.219.3635 or via email at jpotter@cityoflewisville.com. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Denton County Crime Stoppers at 1.800.388.TIPS (8477) or through their website at dentoncountycrimestoppers.com.

The Broader Context of Gun Violence in Lewisville

The incident involving Luis Tiant Kerby is not an isolated case in Lewisville. The city has witnessed a series of violent events in recent years, prompting discussions about underlying causes and potential solutions.

In October 2023, a shootout in a parking lot on East Round Grove Road resulted in the death of a 15-year-old boy and injuries to a 19-year-old. The altercation, which began as a drug-related transaction, escalated into a deadly exchange of gunfire, highlighting the perils of youth involvement in illicit activities.