LSU AgCenter Hammond will host 5th annual Fall Garden Day and Plant Sale!

Mark your calendars! The LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station invites you to its fifth annual Fall Garden Day and Plant Sale on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 21549 Old Covington Highway, Hammond, LA 70403.

This family-friendly event will take place rain or shine and offers something for everyone—from seasoned gardeners to curious newcomers.

Browse a wide selection of high-quality plants grown at the station, including chrysanthemums, Louisiana Super Plants, annual bedding, pollinator plants, houseplants, herbs, veggies, trees, shrubs, and unique species from our research station.

Enjoy educational sessions led by LSU AgCenter specialists on topics such as seasonal landscape design, pest and weed control, vegetable gardening, lawn care, and the latest research updates.

Fun for the whole family! The Tangipahoa Master Gardeners host fun children’s activities, a mini plant sale, plant swap, education booths, and a garden shop in tandem!

Support Local Horticulture - Proceeds from the plant sale help advance the station’s mission to support Louisiana’s ornamental horticulture industry. This year, funds will go toward restoring the Piney Woods Garden—damaged during Hurricane Ida—and upgrading plant production areas to better serve research and outreach efforts.

There is a $5 parking fee for each vehicle. For more information about activities and event schedule, please visit https://tinyurl.com/y6sbrxm4.

Washington Parish Sheriff in Search of Dog and Cat Food Donations

A Message from the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office

As the number of strays in Washington Parish continue to rise, Sheriff Jason Smith is kindly asking for donations of dog and cat food. 

Our deputies utilize the feed daily, transporting it to animals living with families in need and in the handling of strays. In doing so, we are attempting to prevent dumping or starvation. To be able to provide these meals, we are asking for donations of dog and cat food from the public and local businesses. 

Any donations will be accepted, and we are asking that they be dropped off at the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office in Bogalusa or Franklinton. Dry food, wet food, canned, bagged, recently expired—Our animals aren’t picky eaters, and we will graciously accept anything that you are willing to donate. 

Thanks for your help as we work hard to ensure the safety of animals and the public. 

WPSO Bogalusa—302 Mississippi Ave. Bogalusa, LA 

WPSO Franklinton—1002 Main St. Franklinton, LA

The Empty Chair Project is at 10 AM This Friday at the Courthouse

A Message From Hope Alive Recovery

On Friday, September 12th at 10:00 AM on the front steps of the Washington Parish Courthouse, we will gather to remember the lives lost to drug poisoning in Washington Parish. We invite you to stand with us as our community comes together for healing and hope.

Each empty chair will represent a life lost in Washington Parish this year. The display will remain at the courthouse for one week as a reminder of those we have lost. These chairs speak of the empty places left at family tables and gatherings across our community. We encourage you to visit the display with your family and friends, so that together we can better understand the risks of drug use and the importance of prevention.

Families and friends are also welcome to bring a personalized chair or photo to display at the ceremony in memory of a loved one lost to overdose at any time in the past. You may bring your own chair and personal items such as photos, clothing, or mementos to represent their life and memory. Please contact Mandi Boyd at 985 335 0713 to arrange setup.

Fentanyl continues to be the number one offender in these tragic deaths. The Empty Chair Project is a reminder of the impact of addiction and a call for hope, healing, and recovery. If you are struggling with an addiction, you can recover. Please join us at Hope Alive meetings every Sunday night at 7pm.

Hope Alive is a Christ centered recovery group that meets on Sunday nights at 7pm at Mt Hermon UPC with food & fellowship at 6:15. Meetings are free of charge; Dress is casual. We are court approved 12 step meetings for Washington Parish.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 65. Calm wind.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 65. Calm wind.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Clear, with a low around 66. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Hit and Run Leaves Woman Critically Injured in Slidell. Co-Worker Arrested

The Slidell Police Department has arrested 67 year-old Lillian Sellers of Mandeville, in connection with a hit-and-run incident that left a female victim critically injured in a local parking lot late Sunday (September 7, 2025) evening. 

Shortly after 11:00PM on Sunday, paramedics were dispatched to Greenbriar Community Care Center (505 Robert Boulevard), following a report of a woman who supposedly had fallen in the parking lot. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. After further examination, and rapid decline of the victim’s vitals, medical personnel determined that the injuries sustained were consistent with being struck by a vehicle, not a fall. The hospital immediately notified Slidell Police about their findings. 

Around 3:00AM on Monday (September 8, 2025), Slidell Police started their investigation and went to Greenbriar Community Care Center to obtain surveillance footage of the incident. Upon reviewing the footage, investigators observed a very disturbing sequence of events. The video revealed that the victim (an employee of Greenbriar Community Care Center) was walking across the parking lot when she was violently struck by an SUV, which was backing up recklessly through the parking lot. 

Click here for video of the incident

The driver of the SUV, identified as Lillian Sellers, who was also an employee of Greenbriar Community Care Center, briefly exited the vehicle, retrieved a broken piece of the vehicle’s bumper and went to work as if nothing happened. Rather than rendering aid or notifying emergency personnel, Sellers told co-workers that a "woman fell in the parking lot” and needed help. Staff members went outside to assist the victim, not knowing she had been struck by Sellers’ vehicle and not knowing the extent of her injuries.

Upon the disturbing discovery, Slidell Police took Sellers into custody and charged her with Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Hit and Run Driving Causing Serious Bodily Injury, Negligent Injuring and Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence.

Based on the initial findings of the investigation, it is not believed that Sellers intentionally struck the victim with her vehicle; however, Sellers obviously knew she struck a person and went as far as to remove evidence to cover her tracks. Several witnesses came forward stating that it was not out of the ordinary for Sellers to drive erratically through the parking lot. Officers attempted to question Sellers about her actions, to which she reportedly just shrugged her shoulders and provided no explanation.

Sellers was booked into the Slidell City Jail and has since been transported to the St. Tammany Parish Jail. No bond has been set as of this report. The victim is currently listed in critical condition. The investigation is still on-going.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Evelyn Riggs Corkern

August 21, 1931 - September 8, 2025

Obituary

Ellis Eugene Barber

July 3, 1958 - September 8, 2025

Update from Eagle Environmental for Washington Parish Re: Smitty's Supply Incident

Eagle Environmental Services, Inc. (Eagle Environmental) has prepared the following update to Washington Parish Government for activities related to the response to the August 22, 2025, Smitty’s Supply incident.

Washington Parish Government officials took quick action to ensure the safety and protection of Washington Parish residents. On the morning of August 23, 2025, during the discovery of potential impact from the release, Washington Parish Government immediately authorized Eagle Environmental Services, Inc. (Eagle Environmental) to evaluate the impact. Eagle Environmental conducted targeted environmental assessments, including sampling of soil, sediment, surface water, crops, grasses, and air quality. These targeted environmental assessments were conducted at residential, educational, recreational and agricultural areas within the suspected potentially affected areas of Washington Parish. Sampling locations were selected by their geographic location and/or guidance from Washington Parish Government officials, often in response to requests from local residents. Eagle Environmental collected the samples using U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)/Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) industry protocols, with analysis by an LDEQ certified analytical laboratory, and with evaluation of results to applicable LDEQ standards.

Sample results of these media are currently being received and evaluated. Preliminary evaluation of laboratory analyses received thus far indicate that the sample results from potentially affected areas continue to fall within acceptable criteria established by the EPA and/or the LDEQ.

Eagle Environmental conducted air quality monitoring within 24 hours of Smitty’s Supply release in suspected affected areas in Washington Parish using mobile and stationary air monitoring methods. These results also did not indicate a threat to public health.

The EPA has established their Unified Command in Amite City near the incident site in Tangipahoa Parish. EPA is coordinating with multiple agencies and participating in Unified Command with Tangipahoa Parish, the Louisiana State Police (LSP), the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security, the LDEQ, and the National Weather Service (NWS). The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is also involved.

EPA is updating the community via their website links:

• Site Profile - Smitty's Supply Fire - EPA OSC Response https://response.epa.gov/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=17038

• Smitty's Plant Fire Hub Site https://smittys-plant-fire-epa.hub.arcgis.com/

Smitty’s Supply has a hotline for residents looking to file claims connected to the Roseland explosion. You can contact them at: 877-891-2276

EPA advised that if you are experiencing any adverse health effects related to this incident, please contact your medical provider. If you cannot reach your medical provider, the Louisiana Poison Center should be able to provide medical guidance. You can contact them at: 1-800-222-1222.

If you have any questions, please contact us at your convenience. 

Arrest Made for Assisting Escape from Washington Parish Jail

On Sunday (September 7, 2025), Washington Parish Deputy Sheriffs arrested 34 year-old Bradford Forrest of Franklinton for assisting Kaid Elliott after his escape on August 31, 2025. After a comprehensive investigation, deputies obtained a warrant for his arrest on Saturday (September 6, 2025) and Forrest was apprehended at his home on Sunday, 

On August 31, 2025, Kaid Montana Elliott (age 21 and of Bogalusa) and Corey Lee Ard (age 21 and of Franklinton) escaped the Washington Parish Jail by climbing the perimeter fence after a yard call. While deputies were escorting the inmates back to the jail from the yard, the inmates hid behind a structure and proceeded to scale two separate fences with barbed wire at exactly 4:06 p.m. Deputies learned of the missing inmates 30 minutes later, when a member of the public called to confirm he bonded out. The two were located and back in custody the same day. Click here for the previous story

Bradford Forrest is no stranger to the Washington Parish Jail. Click here for previous stories referencing Bradford Forrest

Sheriff Jason Smith wants to thank everyone who contacted WPSO with tips following the escape. Anyone with knowledge of illegal activity is encouraged to contact WPSO and those who aid in illegal acts will be held accountable.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Tonight   A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 67. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 65. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 92. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 66. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Slidell's Man’s Foot Fetish Results in Sexual Assault Conviction

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on September 4, 2025, a St. Tammany Parish jury deliberated for two hours before finding 47-year-old Bobby Mendell Bester of Slidell guilty of sexual battery.  Assistant District Attorneys Hank Meyer and Iain Dover presented the case to the jury with Judge John Keller presiding over the trial.

According to testimony during the trial, the Slidell Police Department received a report in March of 2018 regarding a sexual assault having occurred at a nursing home on Robert Boulevard.  Upon arrival, responding officers spoke to the facility’s administrator who directed them to a 69-year-old resident.  The resident told the officers that Bobby Bester, who performed janitorial services for the facility, had entered her room while she was lying in bed.  She said Bester commented about one of her socks having fallen off her foot and offered to put it back on for her.  Bester closed the room’s door and window blinds.  He produced some lotion and massaged the victim’s feet while asking her if she was ticklish.  He began tickling her feet and pressed her feet against his genitals several times.  Whenever footsteps were heard outside the room, Bester stopped what he was doing.

Detectives obtained a warrant for Bester’s arrest but efforts to locate him were unsuccessful.  Bester was eventually arrested six years later in February, 2024.  Upon being questioned, Bester acknowledged having a foot fetish but denied the accusation made against him by the victim.

In addition to the victim appearing before the jury, prosecutors also called another woman to the witness stand.  The second woman recounted how she was working as a real estate agent in the Northshore area in 2007 when the defendant called her, posing as a potential buyer.  After several phone conversations, the defendant told the woman he actually was not interesting in buying any real estate but was instead interested in taking her out to dinner on a date.  The woman politely declined and asked the defendant not to contact her again.  However, the defendant continued to repeatedly call the woman, one time leaving a recorded message that the woman later provided to law enforcement.  In the message, Bester says, “Can I (masturbate) on your feet?  I know you got sexy feet.  Can I just suck on it or something?”  On another occasion, Bester told the woman “I like that pink toenail polish you have on.”  Being that she was wearing open-toed shoes and pink toenail polish at that moment, the woman became concerned the defendant was following her and reported the defendant to the police.

Judge Keller set Bester’s sentencing for October 23, 2025.  Bester faces between 25 and 99 years in prison.

Obituary

Vita Capo Saltaformaggio 

April 1, 1929 - September 6, 2025 

Obituary

Geraldine Adams Penton

October 26, 1941 - September 7, 2025

Archived Video of City of Bogalusa at Audit Advisory Council Today

If you did not see the livestream of the City of Bogalusa at the Legislative Audit Advisory Council today, CLICK HERE to see the archived video. The topic of Bogalusa begins at 56:10 into the video with a report on the City of Bogalusa's audit report for Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2022. An update from Fiscal Administrator Bob Nielson begins at 1:11:30 followed by comments from Mayor Tyrin Truong, Advisory Council members, and and many others.  

Click here for background

Tickfaw Man Arrested for Shooting Brother

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has arrested 27 year-old Randolph Brown, III, a Tickfaw man for shooting and injuring his brother during an argument at their Tickfaw-area apartment. Brown was booked on one count each of Attempted Manslaughter, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2025, a call came in reporting a 24-year-old man had been shot multiple times in the stomach. The caller indicated the shooter was the victim’s brother and that he had run from the scene. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he remains in stable condition.

Around 5:30 a.m., Brown was located and taken into custody. The weapon recovered was confirmed stolen out of the Houma area.

The TPSO wants to thank the community for their quick cooperation in this case.

As a reminder, Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about any crime to partner with us and report it to our Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2088.

If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! Tips submitted directly through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Jackie Scott Phelps

August 8, 1989 - September 8, 2025

Obituary

Edward Dillon Thompson

November 11, 1939 - September 3, 2025

Obituary

Rev. Charlie Parker

June 6, 1954 - August 31, 2025

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 5-7, 2025

Leonard Reynolds (age 73 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Aggravated Assault by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Russell Jones (age 59 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Hunter Beall (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Savanna Smith (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Willie James (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Lisa Beard (age 54 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Lariah Ealy (age 26 with Gonzales, La. address) was booked on the charge of Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Bradford Forrest (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Assisting Escape by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Dajuan Powell (age 24 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and No Proof of Insurance by the Franklinton Police Department. Released on $3000.00 bond.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Matthew Tate

September 16, 1940 - September 2, 2025

City of Bogalusa on Agenda of Legislative Audit Advisory Council Today

The Legislative Audit Advisory Council is scheduled to meet today at 10:00 a.m.  The City of Bogalusa is on the Agenda for "Status of City of Bogalusa's audit report for FYE 12/31/22 and Update from Fiscal Administrator". The meeting promises to be informative.

The meeting can be seen live at https://legis.la.gov/legis/video.aspx?roomid=106

What is the Legislative Audit Advisory Council? The Legislative Audit Advisory Council is a joint committee of the Louisiana Legislature composed of five senators and five representatives. The Council is charged with advising and consulting with the legislative auditor concerning matters related to the functions and duties of his office and responsibilities to the Legislature, and, most importantly, resolving audit findings contained in audits issued by the legislative auditor and private accounting firms performing governmental audits in-lieu of the legislative auditor.

Obituary

James Elton Magee, Sr.

September 28, 1938 - September 4, 2025

Tropical Disturbances Today

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Sunny, with a high near 85. North wind around 10 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 64. North wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 88. East wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 67. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 67. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Sunny, with a high near 86. North wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 62. Northeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 85. North wind around 10 mph.

Monday Night   Clear, with a low around 64. North wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 89. East wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 67. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Per the National Hurricane Center on Saturday afternoon, the tropical system known as AL91 has unraveled and is no longer expected to develop into a tropical depression due to encountering dry air and high wind shear. There are no other disturbances at the current time.

Obituary

Mary Elizabeth Wright Crain

September 27, 1940 - September 5, 2025

Obituary

Iris Jane Schilling Kennedy

September 10, 1949 - September 5, 2025

Two Sentenced in Pike County MS to 20 Years for Armed Robbery & Aggravated Assault

🤠 IT’S RODEO TIME🤠 in Tangipahoa Parish

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office invites folks to be at the Florida Parishes Arena in Amite on September 26th & 27th for the 14th Annual TPSO Mounted Division Rodeo. ⏰Gates open at 6PM and rodeo starts at 7:30PM each night.

Tickets will go on sale September 15th to the 25th and are $12.00 in advance (Kids 5 & under are free). Advance tickets can be purchased at 

• Bar H (Amite)
• Hammond Sub Station (Club Deluxe Rd)
• Florida Parishes Co-Op (Loranger)
• Kentwood Co-Op
• Hometown Farm and Garden (Amite)
• TNT Western Store
• 👑Or you can purchase advance rodeo tickets from any of the participating ladies competing for this year's queen. 

T-shirts will be on sale beginning the week of the 22nd: Short sleeve=$20.00, Long sleeve= $25.00 (Only available at TPSO Amite office)

Special Acts: Watch the incredible cowboy capuchin monkeys herd wild rams with Tim Lepard and Team Ghost Riders. 

Rodeo Clown: Enjoy the side-splitting comedy of Trent McFarland. 

Kids' Events: Early arrivals can participate in the kids' gold rush and other events. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms between 1pm and 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 69. North wind around 5 mph.

Sunday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 87. Northeast wind around 10 mph.

Monday Night   Clear, with a low around 64. North wind around 5 mph.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Tropical Atlantic (AL91):  A tropical wave is over the central tropical Atlantic but environmental conditions are only marginally conducive for development. The chances of this system becoming a tropical depression are decreasing.  The wave is expected to move generally westward at 10 to 15 mph, and will likely be near the Lesser Antilles by the middle part of next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Obituary

Morris Eddie Lacroix, Sr.

November 19, 1949 - September 5, 2025

Covington Man Found Guilty of Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted Felon

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on September 4, 2025, a St. Tammany Parish jury found 35-year-old Lesean Renard Jones of Covington guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and simple assault.  Assistant District Attorneys Taylor Nicholson and Luke Lancaster presented the case to the jury and Judge Scott Gardner presided over the trial.  Deputy Preston McCarra with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was in charge of the investigation.

According to testimony during the trial, officers with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office were dispatched on May 4, 2024, at approximately 5 a.m., to a residence on Pansy Street in Covington in response to a 911 call reporting an armed intruder.  Upon arrival, the officers were informed the armed subject had fled the scene.  The three residents present were interviewed and stated that Lesean Jones, the ex-boyfriend of one of the residents, had appeared at the front door earlier that morning.  When the residents opened the door, Jones produced a semi-automatic handgun and racked the slide.  While accusing his ex-girlfriend of having a new boyfriend, Jones entered the residence and demanded to know “Where is he?”  Jones went from room to room, looking for the non-existent male.  A teenage girl was in one of the bedrooms and Jones pointed the gun in her direction when he inspected her room.  Jones fled the scene when he realized the police had been notified.  Officers arrested Jones three days later at his Covington residence.

Judge Gardner set sentencing for Jones on September 11, 2025.  Jones faces up to 20 years in prison on the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon charge and up to 90 days in jail on the simple assault.  Jones has prior convictions for aggravated battery and illegal carrying of a concealed weapon.

Obituary

Robert S. Eason

October 28, 1955 — September 3, 2025

Obituary

Ernest Eugene Allen

March 19, 1957 - August 24, 2025

Obituary

Stephen Vincent Giordano

October 8, 1975 - September 3, 2025

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 4, 2025

Maci Chauvin (age 32 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner and Aggravated Battery of a Dating Partner With Child Endangerment (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Brandon Pritchard (age 41 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Hwy, Ran Stop Sign, and Speeding 21-30 Over Limit by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jacob Reeves (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight From an Officer, Improper Equipment, No Insurance, and Off-Road Vehicles Prohibited on Hwy by the Franklinton Police Department. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Sedrick Finley (age 42 with Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Coroner ID's Body as Missing Boater

St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape has positively identified the man whose body was pulled from Lake Pontchartrain on September 3, 2025 as the missing boater whose vessel crashed into the Causeway on August 31, 2025. Philippe G. Lannelongue, age 58 and of Kenner, died of drowning, Tape determined.  The Coroner has ruled the Manner of Death as accidental.

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reported Wednesday (September 3, 2025) afternoon, that a boater located a body in Lake Pontchartrain. On August 31, 2025, a sailboat struck the Causeway near mile marker 14. A male and a female were onboard when the incident occurred. The male went overboard and the female was rescued from the vessel by the U.S. Coast Guard. Rescue and recovery efforts began to find the male by STPSO Marine Division, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reports that the body was found near Manchac and turned over to the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office who then transferred him to the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office to determine an official cause of death. 

Obituary

Mary Elizabeth "Libby" Holmes

November 18, 1951 - August 31, 2025

Obituary

Willie James Lowe, Jr.

May 11, 1947 - September 2, 2025

La. School for Math, Science, and the Arts Welcomes 136 New Students - One From Washington Parish

Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) in Natchitoches officially welcomed 136 new students during its 43rd annual Matriculation Ceremony held on August 29. The first-year LSMSA student from Washington Parish is Anna Garver.

After gaining acceptance through a selective application process, these students were invited to attend the tuition-free, state-funded residential school for high-achieving, academically motivated students. Classes began August 20.

The group of new students comprises 74 new sophomores, 56 new juniors, and 6 new seniors, representing 66% of the state’s parishes. Matriculants joined LSMSA leadership onstage to sign the school’s enrollment roster, an annual tradition that officially registers them as members of LSMSA. 

Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton formally welcomed students and their families to LSMSA. 

"I hope you’re discovering what it means to be part of a community where excellence is the norm, where curiosity is contagious, and where your peers challenge and inspire you to be your best self,” said Dr. Horton.  

The keynote address, delivered by LSMSA Associate Lecturer of English Dr. Kristi Pope Key, used the examples of American writers Walt Whitman and Ralph Waldo Emerson to urge students to be open to inspiration and community.

 “Go forward, seek, work, achieve, and persist. Be aware of your influence on others. Be aware of those who influence you,” said Dr. Key. “And be thankful in each case.” 

Processional music was performed by the LSMSA Mixed Ensemble, conducted by Instructor of Instrumentals, Composition, and Ensemble Michael Young. The National Anthem was sung by Sophie Lee (’26), of Bossier Parish, and Graci Noel (’26), of Vermilion Parish. The LSMSA alma mater was sung by Sofia Anello (’26), of St. Tammany Parish. The senior class reflection was delivered by Senior Class President Anna Weaver (’26) of Natchitoches Parish. Following the ceremony, students returned home to enjoy the first Extended Weekend of the academic year. 

LSMSA is Louisiana’s preeminent state-supported residential high school with competitive admissions for high-achieving, highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors. As a public school, there is no tuition to attend, and assistance from the LSMSA Foundation ensures that the program is accessible to all qualifying students regardless of financial circumstances. For more information, or to apply for admission to LSMSA, visit http://www.LSMSA.edu.

Obituary

Larry G. Fussell

June 11, 1941 - September 3, 2025

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 2-3, 2025

Taylor Corona (age 25 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Casey Hollingsworth (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Impersonating a Police Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

William Jarvis (age 55 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Comply With Provisions of Supervised Release by Probation and Parole. Bond set at $15000.00.

Miranda Moran (age 51 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Michael Thompson (age 55 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and Failure to Appear by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $12500.00.

Keisha Woodley (age 40 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Donald Sibley (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Ricky Miller (age 66 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $20000.00.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Shirley May Manning

April 17, 1938 - September 1, 2025

Arson Suspect Arrested in Tangipahoa Parish

Around 4:00 AM on September 3, 2025, the Ponchatoula Police Department contacted the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal for assistance in investigating an early morning house fire in the area of Eight Street Drive in Ponchatoula. Investigators determined the fire was the result of arson. No one was present inside the residence at the time, but a beloved family pet perished in the fire.

Around 2:00 PM, information was obtained by detectives that the suspect was traveling south on Rufus Bankston Road in Hammond, LA. With assistance from Fire Marshal investigators and Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office deputies, Ponchatoula Police Department detectives placed 25-year-old Bryce Travis Martin in custody.

Martin later reportedly confessed to several crimes, including setting the fire that destroyed the home. Martin was transported to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail and booked on the charges of Stalking, Violations of Protective Orders, and Nonconsensual disclosure of a private image. Fire Marshal Investigators also booked Martin for Aggravated Arson and Aggravated Animal Cruelty.

This case remains under investigation. Anyone with further information is asked to contact Detective Collin Lee or Detective Jimmy McGovern at (985) 386-6548.  

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Giant Plume Ginger and Pink Velvet Banana Offer Tropical Foliage and Pink Color

Two staples of my perennials border have a lot in common. Giant plume ginger (Curcuma elata) and pink velvet banana (Musa velutina) both grow to about 6 to 7 feet tall once they’re well-established. They have a tropical appearance and die back to the ground in the winter but, being cold hardy throughout Louisiana, return in the spring. When the plants lack flowers or fruit, it’s easy to confuse them.

What makes these two plants so appealing to me, besides how easy they are to grow, is the pink color they provide in the garden. Giant plume ginger sends up flower stalks with striking pink bracts in the spring. (The flowers themselves, less noticeable, are yellow.) They begin flowering in late April, before the plant’s leaves emerge. The pink velvet banana plant, returning after the winter, begins flowering in late spring. Many banana species have pink bracts, but as the name suggests, this plant also produces small, pink-peeled bananas.

Neither giant plume ginger nor pink velvet banana seem to be widely available in nurseries. However, both are easily propagated by division of their rhizomatous root systems or, in the case of the pink velvet banana, by seed.

Bananas need a good deal of sun exposure for maximum foliage, flower, and ornamental fruit production. Giant plume ginger is one of the more sun-tolerant gingers but probably still benefits from some afternoon shade. Soil should be reasonably well-drained.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

Man Wanted by Slidell Police - Fled Into Woods After Vehicle Pursuit

Slidell Police are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 18-year-old Justin Lebouef, who led officers on a vehicle pursuit this past Saturday (August 30, 2025) night.

Officers were clearing out a large group of loitering vehicles in a local parking lot when one driver reportedly drew attention to himself by operating the vehicle recklessly, nearly causing several wrecks, and speeding away. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled, sparking a lengthy pursuit throughout the city and eventually onto the Southshore.

During the chase, the suspect’s vehicle lost a tire and crashed into the woods along I-10 near Irish Bayou. Lebouef then fled on foot into the woods and was unable to be located. Officers believe he may have been picked up by another individual.

Lebouef is wanted on multiple active warrants stemming from the vehicle pursuit. If you have any information on his whereabouts, please contact the Slidell Police Department at 985-643-3131 or your local law enforcement agency. Tips can remain anonymous.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Body Found in Lake Ponchartrain

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reported Wednesday (September 3, 2025) afternoon, that a boater located a body in Lake Pontchartrain. The body has been recovered but a positive identification has not been made. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is the lead on the case and any additional information will come from them and this story will be updated

At the time of this report, it has not been determined that the body is that of the boater who went overboard into the lake on August 31, 2025. A sailboat struck the Causeway near mile marker 14. A male and a female were onboard when the incident occurred. The male went overboard and the female was rescued from the vessel by the U.S. Coast Guard. Rescue and recovery efforts began to find the male and the efforts have been ongoing by STPSO Marine Division, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Obituary

Wesley "Skip" Lankford

August 7, 1959 - September 2, 2025

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 70. Calm wind.

Friday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.

Saturday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Tropical Atlantic:  Showers and thunderstorms associated with a tropical wave located over the eastern tropical Atlantic several hundred miles west-southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands have started to consolidate and become slightly better organized.  Environmental conditions are conducive for development of this system during the next several days, and a tropical depression is likely to form late this week or this weekend over central tropical Atlantic while moving slowly toward the west-northwest at 5 to 10 mph.  The system is likely to move faster toward the west or west-northwest thereafter and reach the waters east of the Lesser Antilles by the middle of next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...50 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...80 percent.

City of Bogalusa 2025 Budget Meetings Scheduled

Finance Committee Meeting - Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in City Court Room 

Special Call Council Meeting - Wednesday. September 10, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in City Court Room

Meetings will be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv

Obituary

George Brent Crain

May 17, 1967 – September 1, 2025

Obituary

Carla Remington Altenbach

March 25, 1956 - September 2, 2025

TPSO Investigating Drive-By Shooting in Natalbany Area

Update at 2:38 PM on August 28, 2025: Following tips from the public, the individual in the picture has been located. At this time, he has been eliminated as an involved suspect in this case. However, the investigation is active and ongoing with detectives still trying to locate the suspect vehicle.

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help gathering information about the whereabouts of a suspect vehicle and the identities of the occupants of that vehicle, involved in a drive-by shooting incident in the Natalbany area at around 7 p.m. on Tuesday (August 26, 2025) .A s two men were pulling into the driveway of a home on Dead End Street off of LA 1064, dozens of shots were fired in their direction. No one was injured, but it was determined that the vehicle they were in and the home they were in front of were struck.

Deputies have determined the shots were fired from a blue, 4-door Volvo bearing Mississippi license plate “PRH 1763”. The vehicle was seen on surveillance video at the gas station on the corner of LA 51 and LA 1064 just before the shooting. One person of interest is seen in the attached picture, wearing a blue T-shirt with a white unidentified logo on the left chest, exited the rear driver’s side door to buy gas.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who these suspects are or this vehicle’s whereabouts, to contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2088.

If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! Tips submitted directly through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind. 

Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Calm wind.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 69. Calm wind.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Eastern Tropical Atlantic:  A tropical wave is located over the eastern tropical Atlantic a few hundred miles west-southwest of the Cabo Verde islands. Environmental conditions remain conducive for gradual development of this system during the next several days, and a tropical depression is likely to form late this week or this weekend.  This system is expected to move westward to west-northwestward at around 15 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic into early next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...70 percent.

Bogalusa Man Convicted of Murdering Victim During Robbery

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on August 29, 2025, a Washington Parish jury found 49-year-old Freddie McGowan of Bogalusa guilty on charges of second degree murder, conspiracy to commit armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.  Assistant District Attorneys Jay Adair and Iain Dover presented the case to the jury with Judge William H. Burris presiding over the four-day trial.  Captain David Miller and Lieutenant Casey Hidalgo led the investigation for the Bogalusa Police Department.

According to testimony during the trial, officers with the Bogalusa Police Department responded to an address on Second Avenue on the morning of June 15, 2022, after receiving notification of an unresponsive male subject at the residence.  Inside the residence, officers found 50-year-old Travis Davis lying face down on the floor.  Upon closer examination, it was determined Davis had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to his head.  Officers spoke to a male present on the scene who said he had arrived at the victim’s residence that morning and found Davis on the floor, motionless.

Sources told detectives Davis was last seen in the company of Teratha Johnson.  Detectives located and interviewed Johnson.  During questioning, she initially denied any knowledge of the incident but eventually admitted to being present when Davis was killed.  She fingered the defendant Freddie McGowan as the shooter, saying the two of them had planned a robbery of Davis and intended to split the proceeds. 

Johnson told detectives she waited until Davis fell asleep and then called McGowan and told him he could come to the residence.  When McGowan arrived, he had three other individuals with him: Michael James, Christopher Ramsey and Errica Ramsey.  McGowan entered Davis’s bedroom and approached the sleeping victim.  When McGowan began searching his pockets for money, Davis awakened and tried to fight off McGowan. McGowan then shot Davis in the head.  The other subjects rummaged through Davis’s possessions, looking for things to steal.  All subjects then fled the scene, leaving Davis lying on the floor, mortally wounded.

Detectives obtained a warrant for McGowan’s arrest and located him at his residence on St. Louis Street.  During the course of arresting McGowan, detectives seized his cell phone from his residence.  Later analysis of the cell phone’s data indicated it was at or near the victim’s residence at the time of the murder.  McGowan was questioned about the murder and denied any knowledge. 

Accomplices Johnson and James testified during McGowan’s trial.  They said when Davis attempted to fend McGowan off during the attack, McGowan pulled out a gun and fired a shot.  The bullet passed through Davis’s hand before striking him in the head. 

A witness who lived near the victim also testified.  The neighbor described seeing McGowan park his car and approach the victim’s residence on the night of the murder.  Shortly thereafter, McGowan and several other individuals were seen running to McGowan’s car and driving off.

At the conclusion of the trial, McGowan testified.  As he had done when questioned by detectives, he denied any involvement in the crime and claimed he never left his residence that night.  He had no explanation for the cell phone data and witness testimony that incriminated him.

The jury returned its guilty verdicts after deliberating for approximately two hours.  McGowan is set for sentencing on September 22, 2025.  He faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison on the second degree murder charge, up to 49½ years in prison on the conspiracy to commit armed robbery charge and up to 20 years in prison on the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon charge.  He has prior convictions for aggravated battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and 9 drug-related offenses.

Obituary

Shirley Sims Saltaformaggio

September 5, 1936 – August 29, 2025

Obituary

Edna Garner Thomas

November 8, 1927 - September 1, 2025

Obituary

Carla Stewart Holifield

December 18, 1961 - August 30, 2025

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 1, 2025

Torrence Scott (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Justin Devalcourt (age 39 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (3rd Offense), Resisting an Officer, Careless Operation, Prohibited Acts, Possession of Marijuana, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Grant Davidson (age 42 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Display of Temporary License Plate, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Expired MVI. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the morning.

Tonight   A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 67. Calm wind.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 69. Calm wind.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 69. Calm wind.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Eastern Tropical Atlantic:  A tropical wave located is over the far eastern tropical Atlantic south of the Cabo Verde islands. Environmental conditions appear conducive for gradual development of this system during the next several days, and a tropical depression is likely to form later this week or this weekend.  This system is expected to move westward to west-northwestward at around 15 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic through the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...70 percent.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Re: City of Bogalusa Operating Budget

***   August 19, 2025 Introduction of the 2025 Budget

***   August 20, 2025 The Budget is available for public viewing at the Bogalusa Library, City Hall, and the City of Bogalusa Website under Council Agenda and Minutes. https://webgen1files.revize.com/bogalusala/Document%20Center/%20Browse%20Documents/Agendas%20&%20Minutes/8-29-25%202025%20%20Budget%20Draft%203.pdf

***   September 2, 2025 Public Hearing Discussion/Special Call Council Meeting to discuss 2025 Operating Budget (only) at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall in the War Room.

***   September 2, 2025 Regular City Council meeting, including a vote on the 2025 Operating Budget at 5:30 p.m.

Obituary

Kenneth Darrell Stevens

January 16, 1968 - August 28, 2025

Obituary

Velma B. "Pug" Anthony

November 13, 1936 - August 31, 2025

Obituary

Jeanette Hart

November 26, 1951 — August 27, 2025

Search Continues for Missing Boater on Lake Ponchartrain

The St. Tammany Sheriff's reports that early Sunday (August 31, 2025) morning, a sailboat struck the Causeway near mile marker 14. A male and a female were onboard when the incident occurred. The male went overboard and the female was rescued from the vessel by the U.S. Coast Guard. 

Rescue and recovery efforts began to find the male. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is leading this investigation. Members of the STPSO Marine Division are assisting, along with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Coast Guard.

The search was suspended at dark Sunday night, but the STPSO Marine Division was back out there at first light on Monday morning assisting Wildlife and Fisheries with the search.  

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 30-31, 2025

Buddy Shubert (age 44 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Driving While Intoxicated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Jason Barber (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Peyton Prescott (age 20 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Resisting an Officer, and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

**All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Labor Day   Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. East wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Tuesday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 67. Calm wind.

Wednesday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Calm wind.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Eastern Tropical Atlantic:  (Not much has changed since yesterday)  A tropical wave is located over the far eastern tropical Atlantic. Environmental conditions appear conducive for slow development of this system, and a tropical depression could form later this week or next weekend. This system is expected to move westward to west-northwestward at around 15 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic throughout the week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.