Two siblings are accused of fatally shooting their Lyft driver, sparking a chaotic police pursuit that crossed state lines, culminating in one brother’s death and the other’s apprehension.
Tristan Bush, aged 26, and his 23-year-old brother Ethan Bush have been charged with the murder of 62-year-old LaWanna Lewis. Her body was discovered in a ditch in Westlake, Louisiana, with numerous gunshot wounds early Friday morning, according to the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office stated.
Authorities established a tip line and issued an alert for Lewis’ missing vehicle.
Later that evening, officials received tips indicating that Lewis’ car had been spotted in a Houston-area parking lot, just over the border.
Harris County sheriff’s deputies initiated a chase of the stolen vehicle, leading the brothers to attempt an escape before they abandoned the car and ran on foot.
Ethan Bush didn’t go far.
While navigating through a busy road, he was tragically struck by a vehicle, as reported by the Calcasieu Parish sheriff’s office.
Tristan Bush was captured shortly afterward as he attempted to conceal himself in a neighborhood and was taken into custody by sheriff’s deputies.
The older brother is currently awaiting extradition to Calcasieu Parish where he faces a second-degree murder charge for Lewis’ death. His bail has been set at an exorbitant $2.5 million.
Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further charges are anticipated.
Tristan Bush has a history of criminal behavior, including at least two previous arrests in Louisiana. Meanwhile, Ethan Bush reportedly had no prior legal issues, as per the records obtained by KPLC.
In 2022, Tristan was booked for resisting arrest and faced similar charges in 2023, including resisting with force or violence, according to official records.
Lewis’ grieving family members are striving to honor her memory rather than be defined by the “senseless act of violence” that ended her life.
“We appreciate your love, support, and prayers during this heartbreaking time. LaWanna’s life was taken too soon, yet her kindness and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her,” they wrote on a GoFundMe page.
