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Johnie Lafelle

  • southernsoulspodca
  • Mar 26
  • 1 min read

Johnie Lafelle. Johnnie Lavelle. John Lavell. John Lafill. The records could not agree on the spelling nor on his age.


But his headstone is certain of one thing: he was assassinated.


The Grave


In Arcadia Cemetery, Arcadia, Louisiana, a metal cross marks the final resting place of Johnie Lafelle, and labels him a victim of assassination. Courtesy of Tarah Thomas
In Arcadia Cemetery, Arcadia, Louisiana, a metal cross marks the final resting place of Johnie Lafelle, and labels him a victim of assassination. Courtesy of Tarah Thomas


The Murder


The murder of Johnie Lafelle was reported in papers across the state; often in gory detail. Courtesy of Newspapers.com and The Times-Picayune.
The murder of Johnie Lafelle was reported in papers across the state; often in gory detail. Courtesy of Newspapers.com and The Times-Picayune.

The Lynching

Newspapers across the country, and even into Canada, reported on the hanging of John Elia Jr in an act of mob justice. Courtesy of Newspapers.com and The Vicksburg Harold.
Newspapers across the country, and even into Canada, reported on the hanging of John Elia Jr in an act of mob justice. Courtesy of Newspapers.com and The Vicksburg Harold.

Justice Gone Wrong?


Afterwards, questions emerged as to the guilt of John Elia Jr, and if the mob had hanged the wrong man. Courtesy of Newspapers.com and the Vicksburg Post.
Afterwards, questions emerged as to the guilt of John Elia Jr, and if the mob had hanged the wrong man. Courtesy of Newspapers.com and the Vicksburg Post.

Today, in quiet Arcadia Cemetery, a metal cross stands where the story finally fell silent.


Beneath it rests a man remembered as assassinated, and a question that never found an answer.







 
 
 

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