St. Tammany Sheriff’s Sergeant Killed, NOPD Officer Injured in Pursuit

A sergeant with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office died on March 23 while deploying spike strips during a police pursuit on Interstate 10. The sergeant was struck by a vehicle driven by a 17-year-old suspect, who was fleeing from deputies after being stopped for reckless driving. Sheriff Randy Smith expressed deep condolences, noting the sergeant's commitment to service and his recent recognition as Deputy of the Year. All suspects involved in the incident have been taken into custody, facing serious charges, including first-degree murder. Additionally, an officer from the New Orleans Police Department was injured during the chase but has since been released from the hospital. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved.