Trial delayed again for suspect accused in the death of Hope Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, La. (KALB) - The trial for accused murderer Kayla Wooten has been delayed yet again.

Back in 2024, Wooten was arrested, alongside Latraykus May and DeRoyce May II, for second-degree murder and attempted murder in a shooting that occurred on Cypress Street, killing 12-year-old Hope Alexandria.

Wooten’s trial was expected to begin in November 2025, but it was delayed to March 16, 2026, due to legal issues with the defense’s attorneys.

However, the case has now been delayed to October 19, 2026.

Rapides District Attorney Phillip Terrell tells KALB his office is pressing the case, but two new attorneys were assigned to the defense team, and due to the nature of the charges, they were granted a delay so they could familiarize themselves with the case.

If found guilty on all charges, Wooten faces up to life in prison.

Previous Coverage:

• One arrested, two wanted in connection to homicide of 12-year-old girl on Cypress Street
• Third suspect arrested in Cypress Street homicide
• Trial delayed for suspects accused in the death of Hope Alexandria

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