20-year-old murder suspect turns himself in

20-year-old Jacoby Javon “Cobi” Forte turned himself in at the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center on March 27 following a 12-hour manhunt. Forte was booked into the detention center on charges of second-degree murder and illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Forte was on felony probation after being convicted of aggravated assault with a firearm earlier in March. He ruined his chances of walking free after engaging in an act of senseless violence on March 26.

The life of 19-year-old Jalan Dunte McGee ended that day, as he was allegedly shot by Forte. McGee lived in the Willa Point Apartments in the 1400 block of Louisiana Highway 1 North and was fatally wounded that afternoon. 

McGee was being transported to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center via private car, and authorities caught up to the vehicle in order to expedite the trip. McGee was pronounced dead that afternoon after attempts to save his life were not successful. According to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center Coroner Dr. Tim Collins, one or more gunshot wounds in McGee’s upper body were the cause of death.

With the investigation ongoing, it’s unclear as to whether or not Forte had a previous relationship or encounter with McGee. It’s also unknown whether there was a defined motive for Forte’s alleged actions. 

McGee’s body is being taken to a Forensic Pathology Office in Shreveport so an autopsy can be conducted. 

The Johnson Firm expresses its condolences to the friends and family of McGee. If you or someone you know is the victim of a violent crime, please contact us immediately at (337) 433-1414.