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Funeral services for Rita Diane Killgore, age 66 of Lisbon, LA will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Rocky Springs Baptist Church in Lisbon with Dr. Chris Stevens, and Rev. Greg Tipton officiating.  Burial will follow in Rocky Spring Cemetery in Lisbon under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Diane was born October 8, 1958 in Shreveport, LA to Anita Rogers and Owens “Billy Mack” Otwell Jr. and passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025 in Homer, LA. Diane worked as a secretary in Lillie and Bernice for Louisiana Pacific and Willamette sawmills for 20 years. Showing her passion for music, Diane played the piano for church, sang in the choir, enjoyed listening to music of all kinds, and going to concerts.  Diane loved deer hunting and going fishing, in which bass, white perch, and bream was her favorite. She loved riding her horses, Little Red and Bonita, and attending playdays. Diane was a fantastic cook and enjoyed cooking with her mother. She liked sports cars. Diane also enjoyed reading, watching movies, and cross-stitching.

Rita Diane was preceded in death by her father; and grandparents, Owens and Florence Otwell. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Bruce Killgore of Lisbon; mother, Anita Otwell of Dubach; son, Allen Killgore and Sommar McKoin of Lisbon; daughter, Kerri Ann and husband Chris Roberts of Greenville, SC; grandson, Kade Suggs of Lisbon; step-daughter, Ashley and husband George Ervin of Mississippi; stepson, Owen Killgore of Mississippi; brothers: Mike “Freck” Otwell and wife Karen of Farmerville, Billy Steve Otwell and wife Jenny of Ruston, and Tim Otwell and wife Lisa of Farmerville; special niece, Sidney Otwell of Farmerville, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Tim Otwell, Steve Otwell, Freck Otwell, Tyler Hogan, Kade Suggs, and Jimmy Perkins.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, May 27, at Owens Memorial Chapel.

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Rev. Dr. Leon Whittaker  
Friday 10/07/1927 — Saturday 05/17/2025   
Visitation: Friday 05/30/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home  
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/31/2025 10:30am, Lewis Temple C. M. E. Church, 301 Main Street, Grambling  
Interment: Saturday 05/31/2025 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Albert Kimble    
Thursday 02/23/1956 — Saturday 05/17/2025     
Family Gathering: Friday 05/30/2025 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home    
Visitation: Friday 05/30/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home    
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/31/2025 1:00pm at King’s Funeral Home    
Interment: Saturday 05/24/2025 Following Service, George Washington Carver Memorial Park, Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston    

Norma Lou Snider Huston   
May 5, 1936 — May 9, 2025   
Visitation: 12:30-2 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, Trinity Methodist Church Fellowship Hall Foyer 
Service: 2 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, Trinity Methodist Church sanctuary   

John Robert Richardson 
April 26, 1964 – May 23, 2025 
Service: Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 10:00 am 
Cemetery: Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 10:00 am 

Rita Diane Killgore 
October 8, 1958 – May 25, 2025 
Funeral Service: Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 10:00 AM, Rocky Springs Baptist Church, Lisbon  

James Michael Stewart 
March 2, 1948 – May 26, 2025 
Visitation: Saturday, May 31, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 31, 2025, 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel 

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Louisiana Tech University’s two full-length Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies bestowed degrees on 1,094 new graduates on Saturday in the Thomas Assembly Center. The all-time total number of Tech graduates now stands at 116,874.

The keynote speaker for both ceremonies was Doug Strickel, a Tech Class of 1987 graduate in accounting and a member of both the Alumni Association Board of Directors and the College of Business Accounting Advisory Board. Strickel, wireless microphone in hand, took advantage of the space on the stage to deliver a mobile and energetic speech to the graduating students and the audience that had come to watch them.

Offering stories of inspiration for each one, Strickel divided his speech into five life lessons:

“Know who you are.”
“Don’t be defeated by your past.”
“Don’t believe every thought.”
“Just keep moving.”
“Sacrifice for someone else.”

“If you want lasting fulfillment for a lifetime, you help someone else reach their goals,” Strickel said. “You help someone else accomplish something important to them. That’s a fulfillment for a lifetime.”

Also before the students walked the stage in the morning ceremony, College of Liberal Arts dean — and father to two 4.0 spring 2025 graduates — Karl Puljak took some time to speak on community, family, and parenthood, reflecting on the importance of a milestone like graduation in the framework of a person’s life.

“We think about today and are immensely proud,” Puljak said. “We think about the past, when you were younger, and how much you’ve changed and matured. We think about the future, and it’s very scary. We know you’re starting your own path, and it’s not ours, and we know that you are far more prepared than we could have ever been at your age.”

Notably, Harry L. May of Choudrant, LA graduated with his Ph.D. in engineering during the morning ceremony at 77 years old, the oldest doctoral graduate in the University’s history.

In the afternoon ceremony, Loretta Raymond Wiley of Princeton, LA earned her Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance at age 75.

A couple of the newest Louisiana Tech commencement traditions, like an eruption of streamers during the shifting of the tassels and special appearances by Tech XXII the bulldog, helped send the spring Class of 2025 into the world with emphasis and energy, capping off a strong and eventful academic year in Ruston.

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by Malcolm Butler

 

Pardon the progress.

That is the unspoken motto throughout numerous residential areas in the city of Ruston recently as RightFiber by Ritter Communications has had its general contractor and additional subcontractors laying fiber.

The good news is that when the project is completed, area residents will have another option for their home internet needs.

The bad news is that some yards are seeing a little “disturbance” as the work is done.

Back in March, the City of Ruston announced that it had sold its fiber optic broadband network to RightFiber, a brand of Ritter Communications headquartered in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

The city had only been servicing commercial areas as well as city systems such as wells, stations, city halls, etc. There was no residential service.

“That’s one of the main reasons we did this,” said Walker back in March in reference to providing residents an additional option. “This has been a long excruciating process, but we finally got it done. RightFiber is a very good company that has a reputation for being customer friendly and customer centered. We are excited they chose us.”

So, over the past month or two, many neighborhoods in Ruston have seen workers digging in their yards to make this a possibility.

“RightFiber is predominately what people are seeing over the last few weeks,” said City of Ruston Public Works Director John Freeman. “But we have had AT&T putting in a fair amount of underground fiber too, maybe not as aggressive as what we have seen recently from RightFiber. In some cases, AT&T has been getting rid of some of the old copper. There are a number of different (companies) installing fiber.”

Freeman said that Etheridge Performance Cable out of Monroe is the general contractor for RightFiber and is handling about 40 percent of the work. The other 60 percent is being handled by subcontractors.

“I think probably eight or nine out of 10 instances where you see someone installing fiber, it’s RightFiber,” said Freeman.

According to Ritter Communications Public Relations Manager Jessica Odom, the project of installing fiber throughout residential areas is expansive.

“RightFiber will place just under a thousand fiber boxes, or ‘hand holes,’ which allow access to the fiber for installation,” said Odom. “Residents may also notice a cabinet that will be above ground where the fiber connects and services several hundred customers.

“RightFiber worked closely with the city to ensure all boxes are installed within the city’s right-of-way (ROW). Hand holes are flush with the ground and vary in size. They are distributed throughout various areas of the Ruston community.”

Freeman admitted that the city has received calls from residents, many simply curious about what is happening. However, some are questioning the viability of the contractors digging into what they perceive as their yards.

“We are a curious bunch in north central Louisiana,” said Freeman. “And sometimes it is just someone asking what is going on. And that is great. It has been helpful having the RightFiber signs with the QR codes and the phone number that people can call to get information.”

However, there have been times when city officials have had to help explain the right of ways.

“Right of ways vary,” said Freeman. “They can be anywhere from 30 feet wide to some that are 80 feet wide.

“We had a citizen call and saying, ‘There is someone digging in my yard, and I did not give the permission. Why wasn’t I notified?’ said Freeman. “I told them I would do some research and get back to them.

“In this case it was a curb and gutter street. It was a 50-foot right of way. So, they have dedicated that 50-foot swath according to the title in the courthouse to the public, so it is public property.

“The (company) had received the permit from the city of Ruston based on their plans. So based on their plans they were installing 20 feet from the base of the curb, so they were three feet within the public right of way and had every right to be there.

“We all treat that area as it is our yard. I do the same. But in this case, they were well within their right to be there.”

According to Owens, the project is expected to be completed in early July.

“Residents are currently being connected as construction wraps up in individual areas,” said Odom. “We encourage residents to visit www.RightFiber.com to get their place in line to be scheduled for installation as soon as service becomes available in their neighborhood.”

 

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Tobias Misicko, a third-year Ph.D. candidate in the Reaction Engineering and Catalysis Science Laboratory led by Dr. Yang Xiao at Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science, has been awarded the highly competitive U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science Graduate Student Research fellowship.

This prestigious national fellowship supports top doctoral students by giving them the chance to work alongside leading scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy and conduct research at world-class DOE National Laboratories. As part of this fellowship, Misicko will complete part of his dissertation research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the nation’s top research facilities. He’ll be working under the guidance of Dr. Xiao-Ying Yu on developing advanced materials — specifically, ultra-thin layers of platinum — to help produce clean hydrogen fuel from methane without creating carbon emissions.

During his time at ORNL, Misicko will also receive specialized training in a cutting-edge technique called operando Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry. This tool allows scientists to closely examine how catalysts work on a microscopic level. His goal is to better understand how these materials function and how to improve them, helping make clean hydrogen energy more efficient and practical for large-scale use.

“Toby was a student in my Heat and Mass Transfer course four years ago and conducted research in my former lab,” said Xiao, assistant professor of chemical engineering and doctoral advisor to Misicko. “Over the past three years, he has played an integral role in helping establish my new lab here at Louisiana Tech. His selection of this fellowship is a tremendous honor and a testament to his dedication, creativity, and scientific rigor.

“Toby’s upcoming work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory will deepen our understanding of catalysis for the energy transition and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s broader energy goals. I’m incredibly proud of his accomplishments and look forward to the contributions his research will make to the field of catalysis and reaction engineering.”

“Receiving this fellowship is both a personal and professional milestone,” said Misicko. “It validates the hard work I’ve put into my education and research, and it shows that I stand out among my peers with strong potential. The opportunity to conduct research at ORNL’s cutting-edge facilities will help me sharpen my skills and push my work even further. I’ve been fortunate to work with Dr. Xiao since my undergraduate days in 2019; his mentorship in reaction engineering and catalysis science has been instrumental in shaping me into a well-rounded, competitive researcher. After this fellowship, I plan to keep contributing to the field in an academic, industrial, or national lab setting.”

The SCGSR program, run by the U.S. Department of Energy, helps train the next generation of science leaders by giving graduate students the chance to work on important research that supports the country’s energy needs and scientific progress.

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

New Lincoln Preparatory School graduate JaNancia Richard is only 16 years old.

But she’s already accomplished more than many 20 year olds.

Not only is Richard Lincoln Prep’s Salutatorian with a 4.6 grade point average, she was also honored with the Dr. Birdex Copeland Jr. Citizenship Award during the recent graduation exercises at Lincoln Preparatory School. 

The award recognizes a student who possesses strength of character, is a school or community leader, promotes citizenship, or other similar characteristics of leadership.

Copeland, who died in 2020 at the age of 76, retired from Grambling State University, where he served as professor, head of the Department of Sociology and dean of the School of Social Work. 

He also was a member of Grambling’s City Council and also played a key role in founding Lincoln Preparatory School. The road off of La. Hwy. 181 to enter LPS property is named Dr. Birdex Copeland Jr. Avenue in his honor.

Born and raised in Quitman, Richard transferred to Lincoln Prep at the start of the 2023-24 school year and recorded a 4.0 GPA as a freshman before enrolling directly into the school’s Early College Academy, completing coursework requirements classifying her as a junior at the end of the year. 

The accelerated program allowed her to take dual enrollment courses at Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA), from which she now holds an Associate’s Degree in General Studies with a 4.0 grade point average.

All the while she became a driving force in her school and community, serving as an officer in the Beta Club, participated in local service projects, and held titles as both Miss SUSLA (Lincoln Prep) and Miss Dual Enrollment (SUSLA). 

During Lincoln Prep’s graduation program Richard was recognized for the school’s Highest ACT Award, Highest WorkKeys Award and the Highest Community Service Award.

Richard was also president of Lincoln Preparatory School’s  National Honor Society and was offered  more than $1.5 million in academic scholarships after receiving a remarkable 53 college acceptance offers from institutions across the country.

“JaNancia is a once-in-a-generation student whose talents, integrity, and drive will leave a lasting impact wherever she goes,” said Dr. Crystal Washington, Acting CEO/Executive Director of Lincoln Preparatory School. “Her dignity and poise is amazing. We are incredibly proud of her and cannot wait to see what her future holds.”

The road toward Richard’s future will run through Grambling State University, where she plans to major in Biology with a Pre-Med focus.

Richard, the daughter of Margaret Calloway and Philip D. Richard, Sr., credits her grandfather as a driving force behind her success.

“The secret behind my success is my unwavering faith in Jesus Christ who is my foundation,” she said. “As a Black woman, I’ve faced adversity, but it’s only strengthened my calling to serve others. What fuels my drive the most, though, is my grandfather. He has dementia, and I’ve been one of his caregivers. Watching someone you love slowly lose the ability to speak, to express themselves, to remember who they are and the life they have built changes you. He no longer has a voice, but I do. 

“So I speak up,not just for him, but for everyone who’s fighting silent battles. His strength in the face of something so devastating inspires me every day to be a voice, a guide, and a source of light for others who feel unheard or unseen.”

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An unoccupied vehicle stuck on the railroad tracks in Ruston was struck by a train Saturday night.

Lieutenant Kayla Loyd, public information officer for the Ruston Police Department, said a woman reported her vehicle was stuck on the railroad tracks at the crossing on La. Highway 818 at 2:58 a.m. on May 25.

The caller was safely out of the Nissan Altima and standing clear of the tracks at time of the call.

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Loyd said as RPD attempted to notify Kansas City Southern Railway to halt any oncoming train traffic, a train passed through the city and struck the unoccupied car. The caller later estimated it was less than five minutes from the time the vehicle became stuck to the impact with the train. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

In the past, large trucks have become stuck at the La. 818 crossing because of the steep grade of the roadway, but Loyd said she had never heard of an automobile getting stuck there.

Loyd said if your vehicle becomes stuck at a railroad crossing, follow these safety steps:

1. Exit the vehicle immediately and walk away from the tracks.

2. Call 911 immediately so the local police department can notify the railroad company and stop any oncoming trains.

3. For other railroad emergencies in Lincoln Parish, contact Kansas City Southern directly at 1-877-527-9464.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

The “Duck Commander” and patriarch of the Robertson family, Phil Robertson, passed away Sunday at age 79.

The Robertson family revealed in December that Phil had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Robertson rose to fame first by creating and selling duck calls and growing it into the “Duck Dynasty,” featuring a television show and an international business selling equipment and apparel for hunters. The business served as a mechanism for Robertson to share his Christian faith with the public.

Robertson held a master’s in education from Louisiana Tech where he played football in the ’60s. NFL Hall of Famer and Tech alum Terry Bradshaw has often joked he was the backup behind Robertson and Phil’s preference for duck hunting opened up the starting position for him.

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Louisiana Tech acknowledged the former Bulldog quarterback on social media: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former LA Tech quarterback, Phil Robertson. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Robertson family during this time.”

In a statement about Robertson’s passing, the family announced a public celebration of his life will be scheduled soon:

We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord. He reminded us often of the words of Paul, “you do not grieve like those who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”

Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus. We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.

We know so many of you love him and have been impacted by his life. We’re having a private service for now, but we’ll share details soon about a public celebration of his life.

The Robertson Family
1 Corinthians 2

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

A Ruston man has been arrested for three counts of possession of child pornography.

Matthew Oklichany, 29, was arrested Thursday after an investigation by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office and partner agencies.

LPSO spokesman Lt. Matt Henderson said the investigation was prompted by a referral from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

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NCMEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help find missing children, reduce child sexual exploitation, and prevent child victimization. NCMEC works with families, victims, private industry, law enforcement, and the public to assist with preventing child abductions, recovering missing children, and providing services to deter and combat child sexual exploitation.

Lincoln Parish law enforcement authorities have investigated a number of NCMEC tips in the past.

Early Thursday morning, LPSO detectives at a residence in Ruston. Okolichany was taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office for questioning. He was later arrested and booked at Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

Bail was set at $150,000.

Okolichany’s arrest is the result of a multi-agency investigation including the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General Cyber Crime Unit, the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates has announced the successful execution of “Operation Street Thunder,” a large-scale, early-morning sweep that resulted in the apprehension of several wanted individuals linked to violent crimes in Union Parish. This operation was conducted in response to a recent surge in violent incidents, including more than six targeted shootings, several of them drive-by attacks, as well as a series of vehicle thefts within Farmerville and Union Parish.

According to a press release, “The UPSO Criminal Investigations Division has been diligently investigating these incidents, identifying multiple gangs operating in the Farmerville and Union Parish areas as the primary perpetrators. Through meticulous investigative work and collaboration with local law enforcement partners, ‘Operation Street Thunder’ targeted and apprehended key suspects involved in recent criminal activity, sending a clear message that violent criminal activity will not be tolerated in our communities.”

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Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates issued a stern warning to those involved in violent crime: “Let me be crystal clear: the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office will not stand idly by while gangs and criminals terrorize our neighborhoods. Violent crime stops here, and we will use every resource at our disposal to bring those responsible to justice.”

“Operation Street Thunder” was a coordinated multi-agency effort involving UPSO, Farmerville Police, Marion Police, Sterlington Police, and Louisiana State Probation & Parole. Law enforcement officers executed a swift and strategic sweep on Thursday morning, arresting 19 adults and six juveniles. Operation Street Thunder marks a significant step in restoring safety and security to communities in Farmerville and Union Parish, according to UPSO.

UPSO is still searching for a suspect with connections to the Ruston area. Jordan Gamar Williams, 21, is 5’ 10” tall, weighing 193. He is wanted on felony warrants for attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, assault by drive by shooting, and criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity.

Williams should be considered armed and dangerous.

Those arrested so far include:

Tyreon Devon Davis, 17, Farmerville: obstruction of justice, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail $20,000)

Montonnio Daquille Mason, 25, Marion: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons, assault by drive by shooting (Bail $400,000)

Rodreguis Antwain Williams, 25, Marion: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons, assault by drive by shooting (Bail $400,000)

Kaleb Isaiah Wesley, 18, Marion: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons, assault by drive by shooting, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail $425,000)

Trenten Johnson, 17, Farmerville: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons with intent to commit other felony, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail $425,000)

DeAngelo Deshaun Holly, 18, Farmerville: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons with intent to commit other felony, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail $425,000)

Jase Tyre Fields, 22, Farmerville: possession of firearm by convicted felon, attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons while in commission of a felony, contributing to the delinquency of juveniles (Bail $400,000)

JaQuarius Jamon Donald, 21, Farmerville: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons while in commission of a felony (Bail $375,000)

Sylvannia Quonna Shelbon, 38, Farmerville: contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, failure to appear (improper supervision of a minor) (Bail $25,250)

Jimmy Lane Hendricks, 54, Farmerville: simple battery, illegal use of a weapon (Bail to be set)

Taghi Terrel Andrews Jr, 23, Farmerville: possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail to be set)

Ashton Tyreck Andrews, 22, Farmerville: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies, contributing to the delinquency of minors, illegal use of weapons, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail $225,000)

Antonio Lamar Gipson, 27, Farmerville: conspiracy to commit attempted second degree murder, criminal street gangs and pattern of street gang activity (Bail $100,000)

Nakius Juwuan Stringfellow, 26, Farmerville: failure to appear warrant (traffic charges)

Dupree Isaiah Wesley, Sr, 41, Farmerville: obstruction of justice (Bail to be set)

Zacharian Natavious Hill, 20, Spearsville: violation of protective order, aggravated assault on a dating partner, cruelty to a juvenile (Bail to be set)

Yvette Island, 43, Farmerville: improper supervision of a minor

Kierra Michun Jenkins, 32, Farmerville: improper supervision of a minor

Dominique Yvonne Hobson, 39, Farmerville: improper supervision of a minor (Bail $5,000)

In addition to the adult arrests, six juveniles were taken into custody and booked into a juvenile detention facility. Their ages range from 13 to 16, including multiple juveniles charged with violent felonies.

Male juvenile, 16, Farmerville: criminal trespassing, simple criminal damage to property, theft of motor vehicle (2 counts), vehicle burglary (Bail to be set)

Male juvenile, 16, Marion: attempted second degree murder, aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons, illegal possession of a firearm by a juvenile (Bail to be set)

Male juvenile, 16, Farmerville: theft of a motor vehicle (2 counts), vehicle burglary, criminal trespassing (2 counts), simple criminal damage to property (Bail to be set)

Male juvenile, 16, Marion: theft of a motor vehicle (2 counts), no driver’s license, wearing of masks, resisting an officer, fugitive from justice (outside agency warrant) (Bail to be set)

Male juvenile, 13, Farmerville: theft of a motor vehicle (2 counts), vehicle burglary, criminal trespassing (2 counts), simple criminal damage to property (Bail to be set)

Male juvenile, 14, Farmerville: theft of a motor vehicle (2 counts), criminal trespassing, simple criminal damage to property (Bail to be set)

These incidents remain under investigation and additional arrests are expected. Sheriff Gates encourages anyone with information about recent shootings or gang-related activity to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the UPSO mobile app or the UPSO website at https://unionsheriff.com/cstip/ All informants will remain confidential.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Yesterday’s Memorial Day celebrations undoubtedly stirred up an abundance of emotions across the nation.

More than 1.3 million U.S. service members have died in wars from the American Revolution to today. While we often think of those numbers in the abstract, their impact ripples through generations. The concept affects all Americans, including people like me, who have never mourned a close family member or friend who died in defense of our country.

Even if we haven’t experienced such losses personally, there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24), who did die for us. For me. For you.

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Jesus called his followers “friends” in John 15, and he said there is no greater love than laying down your life for a friend. That’s what he did.

So, on this Day After Memorial Day, let’s continue to be in the remembering mode and recollect these things that God’s son can say to the apostles and/or us:

I washed your feet – John 13:1-17.

I came to serve you – Matthew 20:26-28, Mark 10:43-45.

I died for your sins – Matthew 26:28. During the Last Supper, Jesus said, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” And Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:3, “Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures.”

I arose from the grave – Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18.

I rule in your behalf – Matthew 28:18 says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Ephesians 1:20–22 expounds on that, where Paul wrote: “God … seated him at his right hand … far above all rule and authority … and placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church.” What’s more, Hebrews 7:25 and 1 Timothy 2:5 explain that Jesus intercedes and mediates on our behalf with the Father.

I am with you always, even to the end – In Matthew 28:20, Jesus promises, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Building on that, the author of Hebrews applies Deuteronomy 31:6 to Christian believers: “I will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear.'”

I’m coming back for you – John 14:1-3. These verses provide Jesus’ clearest personal promise to his followers concerning this guarantee: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me.  In my father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

If Christians take this passage to heart, we realize that, basically, we’re here just waiting for the ride home.

As we continue to reflect on this Day After Memorial Day, maybe we should ask ourselves: How will the world remember us? How will it remember me? How will it remember you?

If we’re not exactly happy with the answer to that question, then let’s realize that this adage is true: Today is the first day of the rest of your life.

So gather your courage, breathe deeply and take that first step toward something meaningful.

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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

 

New Orleans – Law enforcement agencies have been working around the clock to locate the inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16, 2025. At this time, eight inmates have been located while two are still on the run. As the search and investigation continued, LSP investigators determined that several individuals assisted some of the fugitives. As a result, the following arrests were made.

For assisting Antoine Massey (still-at-large):

Diamond White, 21-years-old – Principle to Aggravated Escape and Obstruction of Justice

For assisting Lenton Vanburen (captured):

Lenika Vanburen, 28-years-old – Accessory after the fact

Tyshanea Randolph, 27-years-old – Accessory after the fact

Patricia Vanburen, 18-years-old – Accessory after the fact

Angel McKay, 41-years-old – Accessory after the fact

Lenton Vanburen Sr., 48-years-old – Accessory after the fact

All arrested were ultimately booked into the Plaquemines parish jail.

These arrests were the result of a multi-agency collaborative investigation with our local, state, and federal partners. The investigation continues and additional arrests may be forthcoming.

Law enforcement personnel from multiple local, state, and federal agencies will continue to pursue every lead until the remaining fugitives are located. Individuals who choose to assist, conceal, or harbor these fugitives are violating the law and will be arrested, regardless of the level of assistance given or where they are found. Harboring fugitives threatens the safety of our communities and will not be tolerated.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the fugitives or relevant details about the investigation is encouraged to report it anonymously through the following methods:

• LSP.org – Report Suspicious Activity Link

• Call the LSP Fusion Center

• Crime Stoppers GNO

• FBI Hotline

 

The following rewards are being offered per fugitive for information leading to their arrest:

• Crimestoppers GNO – $5,000

• ATF – $5,000

• FBI – $10,000

• Total = $20,000.

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Click the three bars in the bottom corner and select “With Radar” to see current precipitation and storms in your area.

Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

Tuesday, May 27
10 a.m.: Special storytime at Lincoln Parish Library Events Center
2 p.m.: Crafternoon at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room (Ages 5 and up)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night (Lincoln Parish Library; must register by calling 318-513-5510)
6 p.m.: Fitness class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

Wednesday, May 28
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11 a.m.: Technology Help Hour (Lincoln Parish Library George Byrnside Conference Room)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome

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Thursday, May 29
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
2 p.m.: Tween Time at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room (Ages 9 and up)
4 p.m.: Geometric flower pots for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, May 30
10 a.m.: Tommy Terrific: The Magic of Art (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

Saturday, May 31
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market

Monday, June 2
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
4 p.m.: Story hour at Lincoln Parish Library (Events Center)
5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting (Ruston City Hall)
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

Tuesday, June 3
10 a.m.: Family storytime at Lincoln Parish Library (Events Center)
2 p.m.: Crafternoon at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room (Ages 5 and up)
3 p.m.: Ribbon cutting for Ruston Music (503 Hollingsworth Way)
4 p.m.: Placemat pillows for teens (Lincoln Parish Library George Byrnside Conference Room)
6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (410 S. Farmerville St.)
6 p.m.: Fitness class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

Wednesday, June 4
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome

Thursday, June 5
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
2 p.m.: Tween Time at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room (Ages 9 and up)
4 p.m.: Boho wall hangings for teens (Lincoln Parish Library George Byrnside Conference Room)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, June 6
Peach Festival (For full list of events, click https://www.lapeachfest.com/schedule) 

Saturday, June 7
Peach Festival (For full list of events, click https://www.lapeachfest.com/schedule)
7:30 a.m.: Run for the Peaches 5K 
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech Athletics proudly announces the launch of Blue Bloods, the official student spirit organization designed to ignite school pride, elevate the game-day experience, and create a unifying identity for students across campus.

More than just a student section, Blue Bloods is a campus-wide movement built on the core values of Loyalty and Legacy. The organization exists to enhance the collegiate experience, connect students from different colleges and organizations, and foster meaningful involvement with Louisiana Tech Athletics.

“Blue Bloods is about more than sports — it’s about creating an identity,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Ryan Ivey. “It gives all students across campus a shared purpose and a powerful way to be part of something bigger that will not only impact their time here, but for the decades of students to come.”
 
Program Highlights: 
• Loyal Blue Points System
Students earn points by scanning their student IDs at athletic events. They can be redeemed for exclusive gear, such as T-shirts, hoodies, hats, and more.

• Experience Rewards
Top point earners and randomly selected students will gain access to exclusive experiences, such as sideline passes, team travel, VIP seating, and more.

• Student-Led Committees & Campus Campaigns
Blue Bloods is built so students can apply to serve on official committees to take charge of planning spirit events, leading student sections, and promoting athletics across campus — from posters and digital content to social media blitzes and peer outreach — all designed to raise awareness, build energy, and connect Louisiana Tech Athletics to everyday student life.

• Perks Beyond Graduation
Registered Blue Bloods members may be eligible to continue earning benefits after graduation, including discounts on season tickets and opportunities through the Louisiana Tech Athletic Club (LTAC).
 
Blue Bloods is designed to connect athletics to the broader university culture, giving students an accessible way to engage, lead, and shape the future of fan involvement at Louisiana Tech. The organization unites students from all colleges, organizations, and corners of campus through the shared passion of the Loyal Blue spirit.

“Blue Bloods is about building tradition, legacy, and a true sense of belonging,” said Ivey. “It shows students what it means to be Loyal Blue, how to Bark Louder, and why it matters to support and give back to a place that provides so many experiences and opportunities for those that attend here. This is how we begin growing the next generation of passionate and loyal Louisiana Tech alumni.”

The Blue Bloods Crest & Logo
Each element of the Blue Bloods crest reflects a deeper value:
• Bulldog Head – Loyalty, Strength, Tenacity
• Root System – Legacy, Growth, Tradition
• DNA Helix – Identity and Belonging
• Flame – Passion and Spirit
• Laurel Wreath – Honor and Dedication
• Bridge Banner – Connection between generations of Bulldogs

Join the Movement
All full-time Louisiana Tech students are eligible to join. Membership is free.

Students can register HERE or earn points by scanning their student ID at any athletic event. Students who are interested in serving on a Blue Bloods Committee can apply HERE.
 
For updates and events, follow @BlueBloodsLT on X and Instagram or visit LATechSports.com/BlueBloods.

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Norma Lou Snider Huston passed from this life on May 9, 2025, at her home in Ruston at the age of 89. She was born to Edith Jane (Gillick) and James Arthur Snider on May 5, 1936, in Washington, IN, the fourth of five sisters.

Norma was a 1954 graduate of Washington High School in Washington, IN. She married her high school sweetheart, C. Richard (Dick) Huston, after graduation. Dick and Norma moved often in the early years, back and forth from Indiana to Colorado, Virginia, and Tennessee as Dick pursued his career as a college professor. They moved for the final time in 1979, when they settled in Ruston for Dick to teach at Louisiana Tech University.

Norma was a devoted wife and was married to Dick for 55 years. They enjoyed many weekends together at their camp on Lake D’Arbonne, countless days in a boat fishing, and 15 years as owners of the Hole in One Driving Range. Norma knew all about golf clubs and was a super saleswoman in the driving range pro shop. She learned the game and enjoyed watching golf on TV with Dick, especially when Tiger Woods was playing.

Norma was also a wonderful mother to her four daughters and found joy in being a homemaker. She was the mom who led Girl Scout troops, drove the carpool, and whose door was always open to her daughters’ friends.

Norma was thrilled when she could trade in her name — which she never liked — for a new one. She proudly became known as “Mimi” to friends and family alike after her first grandchild was born. She loved her family above all else and delighted in each and every grandchild and great-grandchild.

Mimi was a talented seamstress who sewed beautiful clothes for her daughters and herself. She made matching dresses for her girls and even made a matching dress for herself for holidays – much to her daughters’ chagrin. She also created lovely window treatments for her home and her daughters’ homes and sweet, little, smocked dresses for her granddaughters.

Mimi was a wonderful cook and was the best at making comfort food. The most requested dish by the family was her famous “Mimi noodles” that she made for holiday gatherings. She was always ready for a picnic and enjoyed a weenie roast and s’mores most of all.

A long-time member of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Mimi sang in the Chancel Choir for many years. She also served on Care Teams and in children’s Sunday school and enjoyed attending the ladies Friday Night Fellowship. She was a supporter of Ruston Community Theatre and an avid reader who adored the Lincoln Parish Library.

Mimi was very competitive and would not think twice about beating her grandchildren at Checkers and Old Maid. She had a ball playing Five Crowns and Mexican Train Dominos, especially when her family was together.

Later in life, Mimi stepped outside of her comfort zone and joined The Dixie Dancers senior tap-dancing group. She found immense joy in the years she spent wearing sequins and entertaining the Ruston community with her friends.

Mimi was known for her strength and determination, overcoming many severe health issues through the years. She has left behind a legacy of a sweet, giving spirit, love for others, and family devotion. Her family loves her dearly, will miss her greatly, and will always strive to live by her example.

Mimi is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dick Huston; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Paul and Syvilla Heffner, J.P. and Lorene Howerton, and Gene and Ruth McCracken; in childhood, her little sister and best friend, Janet Marie Snider; her in-laws, Casey & Marjorie Huston, Tom Huston, Jon & Carol Huston, and David & Jill Forbes; and son-in-law Gary Douglas.

Mimi is survived by her children: Jan Douglas of Germantown, TN, Cyndy Taylor of Germantown, TN, Carrie Likley (Steve) of Memphis, TN, and Julie Graham (Mark) of Ruston; 11 grandchildren: Meredith Douglas of Charlottesville, VA, Elizabeth Netherland (Charlie) of Memphis, TN, Marnie Slattery (Thomas) of Memphis, TN, Paige Gragnolati (Ben) of Aspen, CO, Carly Adams (Hunter) of Memphis, TN, Kendall Dalton (Garrett) of Aspen, CO, Huston Likley of Memphis, TN, Callie Likley of Chattanooga, TN, Ellie Likley of Memphis, TN, and Zoë and Mia Graham of Ruston; 10 great-grandchildren, Walker Thomas, Jack, George, and Annie Slattery, Caroline, Louis and Lorenzo Adams, Charlie and Margot Gragnolati, and Rivers Likley Zehtner; dear friend, Karolyn Johnston; “her” beloved dog, Teddy; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her caretakers, Brandy King and Sonya Kennedy with Personal Homecare Services; Sonya Gray, Jessica Hargrove, and Maggie May with Allegiance Hospice; and her faithful physician, Dr. Benson Grigsby, his nurse, Natalie Jiles, and the entire staff of Willis Knighton Family Medicine, whose devoted care gave her family the gift of more time with Mimi.

A celebration of life will be held in the sanctuary of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston on Saturday, May 31 at 2:00 p.m. under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Ruston with Dr. Brian Mercer officiating. The family will receive visitors at the church from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service.

Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Graham, Luke Hockenjos, Huston Likley, Steve Likley, George Slattery, Jack Slattery, and Walker Thomas Slattery.

In lieu of flowers, Mimi’s family requests that memorials be made to Lincoln Parish Library, 910 N. Trenton St., Ruston, LA 71270.

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:4

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Graveside services for John Robert Richardson, 61, of Ruston, LA will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Kilpatrick Memorial Gardens in Ruston, LA under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of Ruston. Officiating the service will be Rev. Whit Bass.

A visitation will be 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home Chapel in Ruston, LA for family and friends.

John was born April 26, 1964, in Ruston and passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 23, 2025.  He was a dedicated employee at Brown Dodge Jeep in Minden, LA for 20+ years. 

John supported the “Wish I Could Foundation” for children.  He also enjoyed four-wheeler riding with friends and family and planting flower gardens for Dorothy. John had a Big heart and always helping others when needed.

We love you, rest in peace.

John Robert was preceded in death by his father, John Sidney Richardson and his mother, Margaret Gray Richardson of Ruston, LA.

He is survived by his wife Dorothy Richardson of Ruston; sister, Kathleen Ainley Haughton of Young Harris, GA; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com

 

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Rev. Dr. Leon Whittaker 
Friday 10/07/1927 — Saturday 05/17/2025  
Visitation: Friday 05/30/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/31/2025 10:30am, Lewis Temple C. M. E. Church, 301 Main Street, Grambling 
Interment: Saturday 05/31/2025 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Thomas Clayton Moore  
May 21, 1952 – May 20, 2025  
Funeral service: 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Mineral Springs Baptist Church  

Albert Kimble   
Thursday 02/23/1956 — Saturday 05/17/2025    
Family Gathering: Friday 05/30/2025 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home   
Visitation: Friday 05/30/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home   
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/31/2025 1:00pm at King’s Funeral Home   
Interment: Saturday 05/24/2025 Following Service, George Washington Carver Memorial Park, Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston    

Norma Lou Snider Huston  
May 5, 1936 — May 9, 2025  
Visitation: 12:30-2 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, Trinity Methodist Church Fellowship Hall Foyer
Service: 2 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, Trinity Methodist Church sanctuary  

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Louisiana Tech University’s Division of Innovation and Advancement recently added significant professional capacity in its development team and within the office of the CEO through internal promotions and new hires.

The IA Division welcomed Hannah Bustamante, Devin Ferguson, Amy Stegall, and Maggie Bundy into their respective new roles this spring. Each of the positions will help broaden the reach of the IA Division and support stakeholder engagement while deepening the division’s collective impact at Louisiana Tech.

“The creation of the new Division of Innovation and Advancement has generated an environment ripe with potential while requiring adjustment to align with new opportunities,” said Dr. Dave Norris, CEO of the Louisiana Tech University Foundation and senior vice president of innovation and advancement.

Hannah Bustamante has been named the executive director of integrated experience for the IA Division. In this new capacity, she will strengthen and coordinate donor and partner engagement efforts, cultivate strong team cultural values, and ensure all curated experiences are impactful and seamless. Prior to this role, Bustamante was a member of the University’s Innovation Enterprise team for more than a decade. Her position became effective in March 2025.

“As we continue elevating expectations around philanthropy, engagement, and growth, Hannah’s creative thinking, leadership, and coordination will be pivotal in engaging partners, donors, students, and faculty to ensure success,” Norris continued.

Devin Ferguson has moved into the role of executive development director, working with the College of Liberal Arts and College of Education and Human Sciences. In this role, he will support opportunities to create meaningful philanthropic engagement across the colleges’ alumni and industry networks as well as ensure alignment with the University’s strategic goals. Ferguson first joined the University Advancement team in 2018 and began his new role on May 1.

Amy Stegall joined the IA Division as director of development and donor engagement. After spending several years with the City of Ruston, most recently as Main Street director and community coordinator, Stegall will carry out a dual role focused on major gift cultivation and strategic engagement efforts alongside other division members tasked with donor engagement. Stegall accepted this position in March 2025.

Maggie Bundy, executive assistant and coordinator of donor engagement, plays a strategic role in coordinating development logistics and supporting ongoing engagement efforts. Bundy previously served in the Office of the President as special events and facilities coordinator. Bundy started this role in early March 2025.

“Devin, Amy, and Maggie are each committed to supporting the University’s goals and bring unique perspectives and experience to their new respective roles,” said William Dearmon, chief development officer at Louisiana Tech. “I am excited about the future of Louisiana Tech and how the ongoing work of the IA Division will build meaningful relationships with our dedicated donors and partners to empower student development and institutional excellence.”

Tech President Jim Henderson integrated the external functions of University Advancement and the Innovation Enterprise into the Division of Innovation and Advancement in 2024. This division focuses on growing and integrating innovation, public-private partnerships, philanthropy, and economic development in support of the University.

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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — As spring gives way to summer, more and more people will be heading into ballparks all over the country to watch their little ones play softball and baseball.

But what about family members and friends that can’t make the games in-person?

Well, look no further than Ruston — in a first for the state of Louisiana, remote fans and relatives will be able to tune into games at the Ruston Parks and Recreation Sports Complex, thanks to the newly installed camera-system that will work with the GameChanger app.

It’s a process that Ruston Sports Complex and RPAR Director Matt Cotton has been looking into for quite some time.

”Through research, phone calls and talking to different camera companies — I think there were 10 companies total I spoke with,” Cotton said. “One of our local tournament hosts mentioned that GameChanger was starting to venture into streaming. So we had a four-month dialogue and agreed on everything.”

Twelve of the 15 baseball and softball fields (all fields in B and C pods) at the Sports Complex have now been fixed with automated two automated cameras: one behind home plate and one in the outfield. And thanks to automated technology, the camera system is able to toggle to the right shot, depending on where the ball is in play on the field.

The cost of the GameChanger system was paid in large part by the Ruston Convention and Visitors’ Bureau.

”Our complex was already considered one of the best in the state, but this will really set our complex apart,” Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said. “Matt and his team have done a wonderful job getting this service — we’re very excited that he took the initiative to get it. And we appreciate the CVB helping us with the purchase.”

Cotton sees the addition to the ballparks as another means for getting more tournaments to the Sports Complex, which in turn means more money coming into the area, while also serving the leagues in Lincoln Parish — both Ruston Youth Baseball and Ruston Girls Softball Association will have access, as well.

”We’ve already had multiple organizations reach out to us that haven’t had any tournaments in Ruston before,” Cotton said. “They’ve reached out to get dates simply because of this, because it adds to our already top of the line facility.”

GameChanger’s streaming service can be accessed for free by family members and players on a team hosted on the app. Premium subscribers can also get access to the service for a small monthly fee.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

 

by Wesley Harris

 

The name of a local law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty last year has been inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C.

Dubach Officer Russell Croxton was killed in a traffic crash on April 27, 2024 after an 18-wheeler struck him and his patrol car while he was conducting a traffic stop on U.S. 167.

Croxton had previously served as Dubach’s police chief and later as a Louisiana Tech University patrol officer. He had recently returned to the Dubach force to serve his hometown and be closer to his family.

Officer Croxton joins his father Ruston Police sergeant Raymond Croxton on the memorial.

Sergeant Croxton was killed in a crash where his patrol car left the roadway in an apparent pursuit on Cedar Creek Road on May 23, 1978. Russell was six years old at the time.

The new names carved into the memorial were unveiled last week.

Each year prior to National Police Week, the names of the fallen are engraved on the walls of the memorial. On May 13, the names of officers who made the ultimate sacrifice during 2024, as well as the names of the newly discovered historical line-of-duty deaths, were dedicated and read aloud during our annual Candlelight Vigil.

The memorial received 345 more names last week; only 165 of those officers died in 2024. The others were added from historical research of past line-of-duty deaths.

The memorial now contains nearly 24,000 names of American law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty going back to the country’s founding.

The only other Lincoln Parish officers listed on the memorial are Ruston police chief John Tom Sisemore, murdered in 1898, and Louisiana state trooper William Michael Kees, who died in a crash during a vehicle pursuit in 1983.

Information on another Ruston officer who was murdered in 1940 is being prepared for submission to the memorial.

Andrew Harrison “Hal” Posey was shot and killed on a disturbance call on November 24, 1940. The suspect in that case attempted to shoot another officer accompanying Posey, but his pistol misfired.

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