LAFOURCHE PARISH, La. — A Lafourche Parish Sheriff deputy is dead after a suspect rammed the deputy’s vehicle early Sunday morning according to Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre.
Sheriff Webre says he is deeply saddened to make the announcement.
“We are all processing and grieving this horrific and tragic death of one or our own. We are with the family providing them with support and prayers at this unbelievably difficult time. We ask for the community’s love, prayers, and support as well,” Sheriff Webre said.
Detective Sergeant Nicholas Pepper, 44, was identified by the Sheriff's Office as the deceased deputy. Pepper had been with Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office since 2007, and he had been in law enforcement for 24 years.
“Nick epitomized all that is honored and revered in a peace officer,” said Sheriff Webre in a press release. “The tremendous outpouring of love and gratitude from the community is truly appreciated. I ask that you continue to keep Sergeant Nick Pepper and his family, as well as our Sheriff’s Office family, in your thoughts and prayers.”
The sheriff says at around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office received a call informing them that the Houma Police Department was pursuing a suspect who had entered Lafourche Parish.
The pursuit led officers near Lafourche Crossing in Thibodaux where the suspect eventually stopped.
Sheriff Webre says after the suspect spoke with officers attempting to negotiate, the suspect suddenly accelerated and struck Pepper's vehicle which was positioned nearby.
State Police say the crash occurred on Louisiana Highway 1 near Klienpeter Road in Thibodaux.
Pepper was transported to a local hospital where he later died.
“Our office is forever grateful for the response of all those involved at the scene including the Louisiana State Police, Thibodaux Police Department, Houma Police Department, Nicholls State University Police Department, Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department, Lafourche Parish Coroner’s Office, and Acadian Ambulance, as well as the staff at Thibodaux Regional Health System for their efforts,” added Sheriff Webre.
The unnamed suspect is in custody, and Louisiana State Police is handling the crash and criminal investigation.
"Pepper’s wife, Christie, is also employed through the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office as an investigator for the Lafourche Parish District Attorney. He also leaves behind two daughters, Patience and Gracie, and a son, Nicholas Jr.," the press release said.
You can send donations to Pepper's family at this address:
Sergeant Nicholas Pepper Memorial Fund
200 Canal Blvd.
Thibodaux, LA 70301
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