Louisiana Sergeant Killed in Line of Duty While Deploying Spike Strip on I-10

SLIDELL, La. – A sergeant with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) was killed early Sunday morning while attempting to stop a vehicle pursuit on Interstate 10 near the Oak Harbor exit in Slidell.

According to the STPSO, the sergeant was deploying a spike strip in an effort to end the high-speed chase when he was fatally struck by the fleeing vehicle. The suspects involved, all juveniles, continued into Orleans Parish before eventually crashing into a New Orleans Police Department unit near Crowder Boulevard.

All suspects were taken into custody following the crash and transported to the hospital with injuries described as stable. A New Orleans officer involved in the crash was treated and later released from the hospital.

The sergeant’s name has not been released at this time as officials work to notify his family. Sheriff Randy Smith issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a devastating day for the department.

“What began as an effort to protect our community has ended in tragedy,” Sheriff Smith said. “We mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant who gave his life in the line of duty.”

The circumstances leading up to the pursuit have not been released, and the specific charges facing the juvenile suspects are still pending.

Law enforcement agencies across Louisiana have quickly offered condolences to the STPSO and the family of the fallen sergeant.

Departments from across the state have shared heartfelt tributes on social media, standing in solidarity with their brothers and sisters in uniform during this time of loss.

This remains an active investigation. More information is expected as the case develops.

This story will be updated as new details are made available.