Louisiana authorities launch manhunt for person of interest in fatal stabbing spree

Authorities in Louisiana have launched a manhunt for a person of interest in a stabbing spree that left four people dead and a child hospitalized in critical condition.

Kaegan Jude Solet, 47, has been named as a person of interest in connection with Saturday’s stabbing spree in Houma, about 60 miles southwest of New Orleans, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff Tim Soignet said in a press release.

Deputies were called to the 200 block of Ashland Drive, where they found a child with multiple stab wounds. The child was transported by Acadian Ambulance Service Air Med to an out-of-area hospital in critical condition.

“As the investigation continued, deputies discovered multiple deceased victims inside nearby homes. At least four victims have been pronounced deceased,” the sheriff’s office said.

Authorities have not publicly identified the victims or shared whether they had any relationship with Solet. Investigators also emphasized that identifying a person of interest does not constitute an arrest or criminal charge.

Investigators also have not shared what may have caused the violence, but say they believe Solet is likely still nearby.

“We’re using every investigative tool that we have,” Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office Lt. Blake Tabor told Fox News Digital. “Our hope is that we plan to get him in custody very quickly.”

Tabor said investigators do not have information indicating Solet plans to leave the state or “go on the run.” He said authorities are “exploring all options.” Solet had not yet been located as of Sunday morning.

Solet had previously been arrested in connection with a stabbing in December 2019. He was arrested and charged with attempted second-degree murder after stabbing a woman repeatedly and leaving her locked inside a Houma motel room, police said at the time.

Houma police found the 59-year-old woman lying on the floor of her room with numerous stab wounds. Solet was arrested about 18 hours later and taken into custody without incident.

He was booked on one count of attempted second-degree murder. However, he was later found not guilty by a jury, Houma Today reported.

Following Saturday’s stabbing, authorities are asking anyone with information regarding Solet’s whereabouts to contact the sheriff’s department at 985-876-2500.