News Summary
The New Orleans Police Department has officially launched a death investigation after finding the body of 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez in a lagoon. Reported missing for 12 days, Bryan’s body was discovered near his home in New Orleans East. Authorities are scrutinizing the circumstances of his death, and an autopsy is forthcoming to determine the cause. A warrant has been issued for evidence related to the case while community members and law enforcement collaborate to gather information. The local community expresses deep sorrow over the loss.
New Orleans – NOPD Opens Death Investigation After Body of Missing 12-Year-Old Bryan Vasquez Found in Lagoon
The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) has opened a formal death investigation following the discovery of the body of 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez in a lagoon near his home in New Orleans East. Bryan was reported missing on August 14, 2023, and his body was found on August 26, 2023, marking a tragic end to a search that lasted 12 days.
NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed the recovery of the body during a news conference and emphasized that the investigation will scrutinize all circumstances surrounding Bryan’s death. While the Orleans Parish Coroner has not officially identified the body, city officials and family members have confirmed that it is Bryan. An autopsy is scheduled to determine the official cause of death.
The recovery of Bryan’s body was the result of a comprehensive search effort that included volunteers, law enforcement, and cadaver dogs from five different states. The search teams utilized advanced drone technology provided by the United Cajun Navy, and multiple search dogs independently signaled the same area of the lagoon, focusing the investigation on that specific location.
Search Timeline and Initial Response
Bryan Vasquez was last seen near the Michoud area, reportedly exiting his bedroom window around 5 a.m. on August 14. Surveillance footage captured him wearing only an adult diaper. There was a notable five-hour delay in the NOPD’s response to the initial missing person report, which has drawn criticism from the public and advocates.
As the investigation proceeds, the NOPD has issued a warrant for the phone belonging to Bryan’s mother to gather potential evidence related to the case. The police department is also actively seeking assistance from residents and urging anyone with security footage or information to contact the Special Victims Division or Crimestoppers.
Impact on Community and Ongoing Investigations
Family members have described Bryan as nonverbal, neurodivergent, and unable to understand English or Spanish, highlighting the unique challenges he and his family faced. The City of New Orleans expressed its sorrow over the loss of Bryan, noting the positive impact he had on the community. ReNEW Schools, the institution Bryan attended, released a statement mourning his loss and extending support to the community during this difficult time.
In addition to the NOPD’s investigation, the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services is conducting its own inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Bryan’s disappearance and death. NOPD Superintendent Kirkpatrick has confirmed that the possibility of foul play has not been ruled out in the ongoing investigation, making it critical for the community to remain alert and prepared to assist authorities with any pertinent information.
Authorities continue to urge the public to come forward with any relevant details or leads. The collaborative effort from community members, law enforcement, and other organizations underscores the shared commitment to uncovering the truth surrounding the tragic situation of Bryan Vasquez.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 8: Authorities Investigating Death of Bryan Vasquez
- Wikipedia: Bryan Vasquez
- WWL-TV: Body of Bryan Vasquez Found
- Google Search: Bryan Vasquez New Orleans
- NOPD News: Homicide Investigation in Eighth District
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bryan Vasquez
- WDSU: New Orleans – Bryan Vasquez Body Found
- Google News: Bryan Vasquez Body Found
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
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.
