ASSUMPTION PARISH — A Bayou L’Ourse man charged in the 2023 shooting death of Atanacio Guerrero has pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of manslaughter.
Joseph Gilchrist Sr., 55, originally faced a second-degree murder charge in connection with the July 2, 2023 shooting at his Elaine Street home in Bayou L’Ourse. Investigators with the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office said Guerrero, 40, was fatally shot multiple times inside the residence after entering the home with a mutual acquaintance.
According to recent court reports, Gilchrist entered the guilty plea Wednesday, reducing the charge from second-degree murder to manslaughter. Sentencing was deferred as part of the plea agreement, with sentencing tentatively scheduled for July 13. Gilchrist could face up to 40 years in prison
