News Summary
The body of 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez, reported missing since August 14, was found in a lagoon in New Orleans. The NOPD has transitioned the case to a death investigation, with evidence suggesting possible foul play. As the community mourns, an internal investigation into police response is ongoing. The autopsy will determine the cause of death, while the Department of Children and Family Services is involved in its own investigation of the family.
New Orleans
The body of 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez, who had been reported missing since August 14, was discovered in a lagoon in New Orleans. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) is shifting the nature of the investigation from a missing person case to a death investigation, and they are not ruling out foul play at this time.
The discovery of the body, which has not yet been positively identified by the coroner due to decomposition, came early on August 26. Reports indicate that the body was found nude. As the investigation unfolds, NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick extended condolences to the family and community during a press conference.
The city of New Orleans has also expressed its condolences, stating that it mourns alongside Bryan’s family. The community has shown significant support, gathering at the site where Bryan’s body was found to pay their respects.
Details of the Investigation
Following the discovery, the investigation’s focus has gravitated towards the circumstances surrounding Bryan’s death. A family spokesperson revealed that the NOPD has issued a search warrant for the phones of Bryan’s parents as part of standard investigative procedures. However, the department has clarified that there are currently no arrest warrants issued for his parents or any other family member.
The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has also opened its own investigation in conjunction with the NOPD. Authorities confirmed that they have not threatened to take other children from the Vasquez family, providing some reassurance amid the ongoing investigations.
Timeline of Events
Bryan, a nonverbal boy, was last seen when he climbed out of a bedroom window near his home in the Village De L’Est neighborhood. Surveillance footage captured him shortly before 7 a.m. on August 14 on Sevres Street, which is in proximity to the canal. The area was previously wooded, but trees were cleared to facilitate an extensive search operation involving community members who utilized airboats, thermal drones, and bloodhounds.
A government drone dispatched by the United Cajun Navy was instrumental in locating Bryan’s body about 200 yards into the marsh. In regards to the police response, records indicate that the missing persons report was filed at 10:20 a.m. on August 14; however, officers did not arrive on the scene until 3:06 p.m. This delayed response has prompted NOPD to conduct an internal investigation to evaluate their handling of the situation.
Community Impact and Reactions
The discovery of Bryan’s body has prompted an outpouring of grief and support within the community. Friends, neighbors, and volunteer search parties had been actively looking for Bryan since his disappearance, showcasing the community’s commitment to finding him. The tragic news has left a lasting impact, with city officials describing Bryan as a bright and charismatic boy who touched the lives of many who knew him.
Current Status of Investigation
As of now, the cause of death awaits determination pending an autopsy by the Orleans Parish Coroner. The NOPD continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bryan’s death, focusing on gathering evidence and clarifying the timeline of events leading up to his disappearance. Authorities are committed to ensuring a thorough and transparent investigation as the community seeks answers.
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Search Ongoing for Missing 12-Year-Old Bryan Vasquez in New Orleans
Search Intensifies for Missing 12-Year-Old Boy in New Orleans
Additional Resources
- WDSU: New Orleans Family Search Warrant Bryan Vasquez
- Wikipedia: Bryan Vasquez
- Fox8 Live: Body Found Near Home of Missing Bryan Vasquez
- Google Search: Bryan Vasquez New Orleans
- WWLTV: Body of Bryan Vasquez Found
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Children
- NOLA: Bryan Vasquez Dead in New Orleans
- Google News: Bryan Vasquez
- People: Missing Boy Found Dead 12 Days Later
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NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
