A search and rescue operation on the Mississippi River near River Road and Farr Park ended tragically Thursday after one person was found dead following reports of a possible mayday call from a boat in distress.
According to authorities, the U.S. Coast Guard and Baton Rouge emergency crews responded to reports of a distress signal on the river late Thursday morning. Witnesses said they heard a mayday transmission believed to have come from a small vessel traveling near the park area.
Emergency responders, including Baton Rouge EMS and the Baton Rouge Fire Department, were quickly dispatched and remained on standby as rescue crews searched the water.
Officials confirmed that one person drowned during the incident. The individual’s identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
The Coast Guard is leading the investigation but declined to release additional details as of Thursday afternoon, citing the ongoing nature of the inquiry. It remains unclear how many people were aboard the vessel or what circumstances led to the emergency call.
Authorities spent much of the day canvassing the area and working to recover any debris or evidence that could help determine what happened.
“The situation is still under investigation,” a Coast Guard spokesperson said. “We are coordinating with local agencies to gather all available information.”
Traffic along River Road near Farr Park was briefly restricted as first responders staged along the riverbank during the operation.
The incident has raised concerns about river safety as water levels and currents remain strong in parts of southern Louisiana this season. Officials are urging boaters to ensure their vessels are equipped with proper safety gear and to file float plans before heading out on the water.
More information will be released as the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as authorities release additional details.
