A 22-year-old man from Denton, Texas, died Friday afternoon after drowning near the Toledo Bend Dam spillway, according to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell reported that the incident occurred on May 29, 2026, when the victim was swimming with friends in the spillway area near the dam. Initial reports indicate the man went underwater and did not resurface.

Multiple agencies responded to the emergency, including the South Sabine Fire District, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, North Sabine Fire District, Sabine River Authority, Acadian Ambulance, Life Air Rescue, and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office Dive Team.

Rescue and recovery efforts were conducted at the scene as first responders worked to locate the victim.

Authorities have not released the victim’s identity pending notification of family members.

Sheriff Mitchell and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office extended their condolences to the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.
The incident remains under investigation.

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 A Florien High School graduate has been selected as Sabine Parish’s recipient of a Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship, earning financial assistance to help pursue her higher education goals.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell announced that Allie Tarver of Florien High School has been awarded a $1,000 academic scholarship through the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship Program for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Tarver plans to attend Louisiana Tech University, where she will pursue a degree in Biomedical Engineering. She is the daughter of Andy and Alison Dees Tarver.

The scholarship is funded through the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Honorary Membership Program (LSHMP), which provides educational assistance to graduating high school seniors in parishes where sheriffs participate in the program.

Recipients are selected based on several factors, including academic achievement, leadership abilities, character, and community involvement.

Sheriff Mitchell said the scholarship program represents one of the most meaningful initiatives supported by Louisiana sheriffs.

“Academic awards by the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship Program to Louisiana students demonstrate what the LSHMP is all about,” Mitchell said. “This is one of our finest accomplishments. It invests in Louisiana’s future and gives something back to our community.”

Mitchell also credited the support of Sabine Parish residents who participate in the honorary membership program for making the scholarship possible.

“This would not be possible without the kind and generous support of Sabine Parish’s Honorary Members,” he said.

The Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship Program has assisted thousands of students across the state over the years, helping graduates pursue college degrees and career training while encouraging academic excellence and community leadership.

Sheriff Mitchell congratulated Tarver on her accomplishments and wished her continued success as she begins her college career.

The scholarship award highlights the achievements of local students and underscores the importance of community-supported programs that invest in the future of Louisiana’s young leaders.

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Residents of Sabine Parish can expect warm temperatures and a mix of sunshine and clouds through the end of the workweek before a more active weather pattern arrives for the weekend, according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say conditions will remain largely pleasant on Wednesday, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 86 degrees. A slight 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected after 1 p.m., while light northeast winds around 5 mph will develop during the afternoon.

Wednesday night will bring mostly cloudy skies and overnight lows around 68 degrees.

Rain chances increase slightly on Thursday, with a 40 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m. Despite the possibility of storms, temperatures are expected to climb to around 87 degrees under mostly sunny skies.

Friday will continue the warming trend with highs near 87 degrees and a 50 percent chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Forecasters say scattered storms could develop during the afternoon and evening hours before tapering off overnight.

The greatest chance for widespread rainfall arrives on Saturday, when showers and thunderstorms become likely across Sabine Parish. The National Weather Service is forecasting a 70 percent chance of precipitation with mostly cloudy skies and temperatures reaching the mid-80s.

Storm chances remain elevated on Sunday, with a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day. Despite the unsettled weather, temperatures are forecast to reach near 88 degrees.

Forecast at a Glance

Wednesday

Mostly sunny

20% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms

High: 86°

Low: 68°

Thursday

Mostly sunny

40% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms

High: 87°

Low: 68°

Friday

Partly sunny

50% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms

High: 87°

Low: 71°

Saturday

Showers and thunderstorms likely

70% chance of rain

High: 86°

Low: 72°

Sunday

Showers and thunderstorms likely

60% chance of rain

High: 88°

Residents with outdoor plans this weekend are encouraged to keep an eye on changing weather conditions and have alternate plans in place. Thunderstorms may produce heavy rainfall, dangerous lightning, and brief gusty winds. Motorists are also urged to use caution during periods of heavy rain and avoid driving through flooded roadways.

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The Sabine Parish Library is kicking off summer with a full calendar of educational, recreational, and family-friendly programs throughout June as part of its annual Summer Reading Program.

Activities will be offered at multiple library branches across the parish, including Many, Converse, Pleasant Hill, Toledo Bend, and Zwolle. Programs are designed for children, teens, adults, and seniors, providing opportunities for learning, creativity, fitness, and community engagement.

The Summer Reading Program features age-specific sessions throughout the month. Children ages 0-2 can participate in weekly activities at the Many Branch, while programs for ages 3-4, 5-7, and 8-11 are scheduled at branches across the parish. Adult participants can also take part in dedicated Summer Reading Program events.

In addition to reading-related activities, the library system will host a variety of special events, including:

Chair Aerobics classes at the Pleasant Hill Branch

Adult Chess Club meetings at the Toledo Branch

Kids Chess Club activities at the Toledo Branch

Zwolle Summer Reading Program events

Converse Summer Reading Program activities

Project PALS programs in Many and Toledo

Rock Garden Party in Converse

Growing with Friends program in Converse

Book to Art creative activity at the Many Branch

Library officials encourage residents to take advantage of the diverse programming available throughout the month to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community involvement.

The library system will observe the Juneteenth holiday on Friday, June 19, with all branches closed for the day.

Residents interested in participating can contact their local branch for more information:

Main Branch (Many)
705 Main Street
318-256-4150

Converse Branch
108 West Port Arthur
318-567-3121

Pleasant Hill Branch
8434 Bridges Street
318-660-1131

Toledo Branch
12350 Texas Highway
318-256-4152

Zwolle Branch
455 Hammond Street
318-645-6955

The Summer Reading Program is part of the library’s ongoing mission to encourage reading and learning while providing engaging activities for residents of all ages throughout Sabine Parish.

For complete schedules and program details, residents are encouraged to contact their local library branch.

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Funeral services for Carter Dane Malmay, 14, were held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St., Zwolle, Louisiana.  Visitation was held on Sunday, May 24, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Monday, May 25, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial followed the service at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Zwolle, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Father Timothy Hurd, Father Keith Garvin, and Father Joseph Maddala.

Carter was born on July 8, 2011 to Charles Dakota Malmay and Lacey Elizabeth Rivers in Shreveport, Louisiana and passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 in Many, Louisiana.

Carter lived a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Though his time here was far too short, he touched the lives of everyone who knew him with his kind heart, gentle spirit, and ability to bring a smile to anyone’s face. He had a gift for making others laugh, especially during difficult moments, and his presence brought comfort and joy to so many.

Carter loved the outdoors and found happiness in fishing, hunting, riding four wheelers, and spending time with friends and family. He also enjoyed playing basketball and playing his video games and embraced every adventure with energy and excitement. His sweet soul, caring nature, and adventurous spirit will forever be remembered and deeply missed by all who loved him.

Carter was preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, T.J. Malmay and Benny Rivers; grandfather, Howard Rivers; grandmother, Patsy Bebee Ebarb; aunt, Kirsten Marie Malmay; uncles, Dillion Ebarb and Micheal Dewayne Rivers; and cousins, Emma Hilburn and Lexie Malmay.

Carter is survived by his mother, Lacey Rivers; father, Dakota Malmay and B.B.; brothers, Blayne Sepulvado and Alyssa and Toby Sepulvado and Sienna; special sister, Josie; fur siblings, Rocky and Sadie; grandparents, Shannon Rivers, Daisy “Peeps” Rogers, Pat and Tracey Malmay, and Jessie Ebarb and Virginia; special grandparents, Jack and Debbie Sepulvado; great-grandmothers, Karen Rivers and Barbara Malmay; uncles, Corey Malmay and Kamryn, Lance Patrick, Josh Hilburn, Delayne Rivers and Pam, Lance Rivers and Lindsey, and Justin Rivers and Angel; aunts, Shelby Hilburn and Jacob, Marissa Malmay and Jay, Macey Malmay, Terry Remedies, Roxanne Kezerle and Jason, Regina Ezernack and Evan, Brandy Cathey and David, and Micki Erdelac and Tony; and a host of cousins and friends.

Honoring Carter as pallbearers were Dakota Malmay, Blayne Sepulvado, Toby Sepulvado, Colby Kezerle, Matt Kezerle, Clayton Rivers, Conner Malmay, and Jonah Williams. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Brenten Sepulvado, Garrett Sepulvado, Dustin Boyt, Jeremy Sepulvado, Dylan Ebarb, the members of the Converse High School basketball team, and Class of 2030.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many, Louisiana.

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Patrick Allan Whiting, 60, was born on November 22, 1965 to Gerald Benton Whiting and Jerry Loretta McRevy Whiting in New Orleans, Louisiana and passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026 in Robeline, Louisiana.

Patrick is preceded in death by his father, Gerald Whiting.

Patrick is survived by his wife, Terri Whiting of Robeline, Louisiana; mother, Jerry Whiting; son, Daniel James Whiting and wife, Amber, of Robeline, Louisiana; daughter, Heather Lynn Tramel and husband, Dylan, of Many, Louisiana; sisters, Karen Ford and husband, Walter, of Many, Louisiana and Sandy Sizemore of Many, Louisiana; brother, Robert Whiting of Many, Louisiana; 3 grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many, Louisiana.

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Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

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The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office is joining Louisiana State Police in recognizing the retirement of Master Trooper Rodney Williams following nearly 30 years of dedicated law enforcement service.

According to Louisiana State Police, Master Trooper Williams served with the Patrol Division, Troop E, from 1998 until his retirement in 2026. During his career, Williams became a familiar and respected presence throughout Central Louisiana, including in Sabine Parish and surrounding communities.

In a public message shared this week, the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office offered congratulations and appreciation for Williams’ years of service.

“Congratulations, thank you for your many years of service in Sabine Parish,” the Sheriff’s Office stated.

Louisiana State Police also honored Williams for his “dedicated and unwavering service” throughout his law enforcement career.

As a member of Troop E, Williams spent decades serving motorists, responding to emergencies, investigating crashes, and assisting local agencies across the region. Troopers often work closely with parish sheriff’s offices and local police departments to support public safety efforts in rural communities throughout Louisiana.

Fellow officers, community leaders, and residents are expressing gratitude for Williams’ commitment to protecting and serving the public during his nearly three decades in uniform.

His retirement marks the end of a long career dedicated to law enforcement and public service across Central Louisiana.

Residents of Sabine Parish are invited to take part in a special community event this summer as local officials prepare to dedicate a new time capsule during the “Echoes of Today” ceremony in Many.

According to event organizers, the Sabine Parish Time Capsule Dedication will take place Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Sabine Parish Courthouse located at 400 Capitol Street in Many.

The ceremony, titled Echoes of Today, is expected to serve as both a celebration of the present generation and a way to preserve memories, history, and community achievements for future residents of Sabine Parish.

Time capsules are traditionally created to capture snapshots of life during a particular era, often including photographs, letters, newspapers, memorabilia, and other items representing the culture and identity of the community at that moment in history.

Community leaders say the event will provide residents an opportunity to reflect on Sabine Parish’s heritage while also leaving behind a meaningful record for future generations.

The dedication ceremony is expected to draw local officials, community members, and residents interested in participating in a unique historical project focused on preserving the story of Sabine Parish in 2026.

Organizers encourage the public to attend and be part of the occasion as the parish creates what officials hope will become a lasting piece of local history.

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Residents across Sabine Parish should prepare for several days of showers and thunderstorms as a persistent wet weather pattern moves through the region this week, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say rain chances will remain elevated from Wednesday through Sunday, with scattered to numerous thunderstorms possible each day.

Wednesday is expected to bring widespread showers and thunderstorms with a high temperature near 83 degrees. Winds will remain light out of the south, and the chance of precipitation is forecast at 90 percent.

Rain and storm activity are expected to continue into Wednesday night with cloudy skies and overnight lows around 69 degrees. The National Weather Service places the chance of rainfall Wednesday night at 70 percent.

Additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms are forecast Thursday, especially during the afternoon hours after 1 p.m. High temperatures are expected to reach near 83 degrees under mostly cloudy skies.

Thursday night will see lingering storm chances before conditions begin to gradually decrease overnight. Temperatures are expected to fall to around 68 degrees.

Forecasters say another active weather day is likely Friday with additional showers and thunderstorms developing during the afternoon and evening. Friday’s high is expected to climb to around 86 degrees with a 60 percent chance of rain.

Rain chances decrease slightly heading into the weekend, though isolated to scattered thunderstorms will remain possible Saturday and Sunday. High temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-to-upper 80s with periods of sunshine mixed with afternoon storm development.

The National Weather Service encourages residents to remain weather aware throughout the week, especially during thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds.

Drivers are urged to use caution during periods of heavy rain and avoid traveling through flooded roadways or areas with standing water.

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The Many Lady Tigers Volleyball program is inviting young athletes from across Sabine Parish to take part in its upcoming summer volleyball clinic designed to teach fundamentals, build skills, and introduce participants to the Lady Tigers program.

According to organizers, the two-day clinic will be held June 23-24, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. each day at the Many High School gym.

The clinic is open to students ages 4 through 14, including incoming Pre-K through eighth-grade students.

Lady Tigers coaches say the clinic will focus on teaching the basic fundamentals of volleyball while providing a fun and encouraging environment for young players interested in the sport. Instruction will be led by the Many Lady Tigers coaching staff, current players, and volunteers.

“It’s time for our summer clinic,” the program shared in a social media announcement. “We invite your child to participate in this volleyball fun.”

Organizers also teased a surprise activity planned for participants on the final day of the clinic.

Each participant will receive volleyball instruction and skill development, a clinic T-shirt, and free admission to the Lady Tigers’ first home game of the 2026 volleyball season.

Registration for the clinic is $40 per child, with a $5 discount offered for each additional sibling participating.

Program officials said payments are due by June 18 and may be submitted by cash or check to any coach or player or dropped off at the front office of Many High School.

Community members interested in registering can complete the online registration form provided by the Lady Tigers Volleyball program. Additional information is available by contacting Coach Alford at alfordh@spsb.la or by calling 318-415-9025.

Coaches say the clinic serves as both a learning opportunity and a chance for future Lady Tigers players to connect with the program while building confidence and teamwork skills.

“Come learn. Have fun. Be a Lady Tiger!” the program stated.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has announced that applications are now available for the 2026 commercial alligator lottery harvest season, which will begin Aug. 26 across designated wildlife management areas, public lakes, and federal property locations throughout the state.

According to LDWF, the commercial alligator lottery harvests will take place on 23 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), 28 public lakes, and one U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property.

Officials say applications must be submitted by June 15, 2026.

LDWF emphasized that this program is the state’s longstanding commercial alligator lottery harvest and is separate from the recently adopted recreational alligator lottery program, which will feature a different application process expected to open later this year.

Eligible applicants must be Louisiana residents who are at least 16 years old. Participants may submit one application per customer and may rank up to three preferred hunting areas on their application.

The application fee is $5, along with a $3.50 transaction fee. Hunters selected through the lottery process will also be required to purchase a $25 alligator hunter license and pay $40 for each alligator tag allocated.

To assist applicants in selecting hunting locations, LDWF has made additional resources available online, including area maps, contact information for WMAs and public lakes, and statistics showing 2025 first-choice selection percentages for each location.

The department encourages interested applicants to review the available information carefully before applying.

For additional information regarding commercial lottery alligator harvests on WMAs and public lakes, residents may contact their local LDWF Field Office or email LAalligatorprogram@wlf.la.gov.

Applications and additional program information are available through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.

Mary Jo Wright
July 30, 1945 – May 21, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, May 27 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Warren Meadows Funeral Home
Services: Thursday, May 28 at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Many

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

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Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell announced the arrest of a Noble man accused of multiple child sexual abuse offenses following an investigation conducted by the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division.

According to investigators, 58-year-old Norman Michael Sepulvado of Noble was arrested after three separate victims reported allegations of sexual abuse that allegedly occurred when they were between 12 and 13 years old.

Sheriff’s officials said detectives began investigating the allegations earlier this month. Authorities allege that abuse involving one of the victims continued for approximately 10 years.

Investigators stated that the alleged abuse involving the victims spanned a period of nearly 30 years, between 1992 and 2022.

Following the investigation, detectives obtained three arrest warrants for Sepulvado through the 11th Judicial District Court.

Sepulvado was booked into the Sabine Parish Detention Center on multiple charges, including:

Five counts of second-degree rape of a juvenile
Five counts of second-degree rape

Five counts of sexual battery involving a victim under age 13

Additional counts of second-degree rape of a juvenile

Authorities said Sepulvado’s total bond has been set at $2,750,000, and he remains incarcerated at the Sabine Parish Detention Center.

The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who believes they may have been a victim of abuse involving Norman Sepulvado to contact the Sabine Parish Criminal Investigation Division at 318-590-9475.

Officials noted that the investigation remains ongoing.

Sabine Parish Schools is reminding families that applications for district transfer requests for the upcoming school year must be submitted no later than June 1, 2026.

According to district officials, all transfer requests must be received by the Sabine Parish Schools Central Office by the deadline, and late submissions may not be considered.

Applications are available online through the Sabine Parish School Board website at spsb.la, and printed copies may also be picked up at the SPSB Central Office or any district school campus.

Completed applications may be submitted directly to the Central Office, attention K. Brumley or H. McDonald, or emailed to mcdonaldh@spsb.la or brumleyk@spsb.la.

School officials say the annual transfer process helps the district prepare for student enrollment, staffing, and campus planning ahead of the new academic year.

Sabine Parish Schools encouraged parents and guardians considering a district transfer for their child to complete the process as early as possible to avoid delays.

District leaders emphasized the school system’s continued focus on serving students throughout the parish, highlighting the district message: “Together, we are one district, one purpose, every student.”

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Residents across Sabine Parish should prepare for several days of unsettled weather as showers and thunderstorms are expected throughout the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say rain chances will remain high from Wednesday through Memorial Day, with repeated rounds of showers and storms likely across the parish.

Wednesday’s forecast calls for a chance of showers and thunderstorms during the morning hours, followed by showers and thunderstorms becoming more widespread during the afternoon. Skies are expected to remain partly sunny with a high near 85 degrees. Rain chances are set at 70 percent, with possible rainfall amounts between one-quarter and one-half inch.

Wednesday night will remain mostly cloudy with showers and thunderstorms likely before and after midnight. Overnight lows are expected near 69 degrees.

Thursday’s weather is expected to become even wetter, with a 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. High temperatures are forecast near 83 degrees.

Showers and possible thunderstorms are expected to continue Thursday night with lows around 69 degrees and a 90 percent chance of precipitation.

Friday’s forecast remains stormy, with showers and thunderstorms likely and highs near 82 degrees. Rain chances remain elevated at 80 percent. Additional showers and possible storms are expected Friday night under mostly cloudy skies.

The unsettled pattern is expected to continue through the weekend. Saturday carries an 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with highs near 83 degrees, while Sunday’s forecast includes a 90 percent chance of rain and storms and highs near 81 degrees.

Memorial Day itself is expected to remain cloudy and wet, with a 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and highs near 83 degrees.

Meteorologists encourage residents planning outdoor events, lake activities, travel, or holiday gatherings to monitor local forecasts closely and remain alert for possible thunderstorms and changing weather conditions throughout the extended holiday weekend.

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Residents and visitors are being invited to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary this Fourth of July with a patriotic boat parade on Toledo Bend Reservoir.]

Organized by Sabine Parish America 250 in partnership with America 250 Louisiana, the event will feature decorated boats traveling along Toledo Bend in a community-wide celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial.

According to organizers, boat lineup will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Pendleton Bridge, with the parade officially starting at 10 a.m. Participants will travel along the designated route before ending at Cypress Bend Park.

Boaters are welcome to participate in the full parade route or join the procession at points along the lake as the flotilla passes by.

Event organizers say the parade is designed to bring together families, boaters, and patriotic supporters in celebration of 250 years of American history and freedom.

“We can’t wait to see the lake filled with boats, flags, and patriotic spirit,” organizers shared in announcing the event.

Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats with patriotic themes, flags, and America 250 displays as part of the festivities.

Community leaders say the Toledo Bend boat parade is expected to become one of the area’s signature Independence Day events while highlighting the natural beauty and recreational importance of the lake to Sabine Parish and the surrounding region.

Additional route information and event details are expected to be shared leading up to the Fourth of July celebration.

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As National Safe Boating Week begins, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding boaters across the state to prioritize safety on the water following dozens of boating fatalities reported in recent years.

According to LDWF, Louisiana recorded 87 boating fatalities between 2021 and 2025, with victims averaging approximately 50 years of age. So far in 2026, the state has already recorded five boating-related deaths.

Wildlife officials say many of the fatalities shared several common factors, including failure to wear life jackets, alcohol use, and lack of boating safety education.

State data shows:

81 percent of boating fatality victims were not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD)

Alcohol was involved in 26 percent of fatalities

75 percent of those involved had not completed boating education courses

LDWF officials are encouraging all boaters to wear life jackets and ensure every vessel carries enough personal flotation devices for all passengers onboard.

Under Louisiana law, children age 16 and younger are required to wear a life jacket while underway on vessels less than 26 feet in length.

The department also reminded residents that boating while intoxicated carries the same legal penalties as operating a motor vehicle under the influence.

To help improve safety awareness, LDWF continues offering free boating safety education courses across the state.

Officials say National Safe Boating Week serves as an important reminder for families and outdoor enthusiasts to remain cautious as boating activity increases heading into the busy summer season and Memorial Day weekend.

Additional boating safety information and course registration details are available through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

 

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Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

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Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell has announced the agency’s felony narcotics and firearm arrests for April 2026, highlighting multiple drug-related investigations conducted throughout the parish.

According to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, several individuals from Many, Zwolle, and surrounding areas were arrested on charges involving narcotics possession, firearm violations, and other felony offenses.

Among those arrested was 48-year-old Junipter Lorraine Carr of Many, who was charged with possession of Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, no driver’s license, and driving on a roadway laned for traffic. Her bond was set at $10,842.50, and officials say she later bonded out of jail.

Authorities also arrested 24-year-old Jerald Dwayne Shepherd of Many on multiple felony charges, including possession with intent to distribute marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine. Additional charges included second or subsequent offenses, possession of a firearm in the presence of controlled dangerous substances, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $100,000, and he remains incarcerated.

Jaden Kane Allen, 21, of Many, was charged with possession of Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine) and failure to signal. Officials said he was released on a $5,000 own-recognizance bond.

John Joseph Pouncy, 48, of Shreveport, was arrested for possession of Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine). His bond was set at $5,500, and he later bonded out.

In another case, 40-year-old Cody Brent Sepulvado of Zwolle was charged with possession of Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine) and illegal window tint. His bond was set at $5,000, and he bonded out of jail.

Ronnie Ray Cole, 63, of Zwolle, was arrested on a warrant for conspiracy to distribute Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine). Authorities set his bond at $360,000, and he remains in custody.

Tommy Wayne Oxley, 50, of Zwolle, faces charges including unauthorized use of a movable, failure to register a vehicle operated by a sex offender, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. His total bond was set at $130,000, and he remains jailed.

Also arrested was 50-year-old Brandi Suzanne Bordelon of Many, who was charged with possession of Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, and second or subsequent offenses. Her bond was set at $8,000, and officials say she later bonded out.

Sheriff Mitchell said the arrests reflect the continued efforts of the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office to combat illegal narcotics activity and firearm-related offenses throughout the parish.