by Wesley Harris
Longtime Ruston Police Lieutenant Marchale Canty died Friday following a sudden illness. He was found deceased at his home Friday morning.
A statement by the Ruston Police Department praised Canty.
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that the Ruston Police Department announces the sudden passing of Lieutenant Marchale Canty, our Director of Patrol, who passed away today following a sudden illness. Lieutenant Canty was a cornerstone of our agency and a dedicated public servant who committed nearly 30 years of his life to law enforcement.
“Throughout his distinguished career, he earned the deep respect, admiration, and affection of everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him. To our newest officers, Lt. Canty was a tough mentor, a teacher, and an inspiration. To our seasoned veterans and colleagues across the Lincoln Parish law enforcement community, he was a trusted brother-in-arms, a leader of unmatched integrity, and a true friend. His impact on this department and the community he protected for three decades cannot be overstated.
“This loss leaves an undeniable void in our hearts and in the halls of the Ruston Police Department. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and friend, we ask the community to keep Lieutenant Canty’s family, loved ones, and his fellow officers in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
RPD Chief Eric Watson said, “Since I took over as the chief in Ruston 20 months ago, Lt Canty has been a trusted advisor and friend. I could always count on him to tell me exactly what he was thinking and I appreciated his counsel.”
Musician Monty Russell, a former RPD patrol officer, wrote “Marchale Canty saved me from injury or worse on more than one occasion, and I did the same for him. Police work is terrifying at times, but a whole lot of the shift is sheer boredom. In the scary moments you develop a definite camaraderie, but it is in the down time that you solidify your bond . . . Godspeed Marchale . . . I’ll be singing ‘I’ll Fly Away’ for you in the set tonight.”
RPD will share details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial as they become available.
