Crime
Joe Rodrigue identiifed as police officer injured in New Orleans terror attack
Among the many affected by the tragic Bourbon Street attack, Officer Joe Rodrigue of the New Orleans Police Department stands out as a symbol of dedication and strength.
One of two officers injured during the incident, Joe’s journey to recovery has become a beacon of hope for his family, friends, and community.
A close friend, Loren Milliken, shared a heartfelt tribute on a GoFundMe campaign, recounting the deep friendship she and Joe forged over the past 23 years.
“Joe and I met 23 years ago at the Blockbuster on Veterans Street in Metairie. We instantly connected over our shared love of indie movies and rock music,” she wrote.
Over the years, their bond grew into an enduring friendship that survived the tests of time, distance, and differing opinions. “It’s the kind of bond that reminds me of the resilience of true friendship and gives me hope in the power of human connection,” Milliken shared.
Joe has dedicated nearly a decade of his life to serving the New Orleans Police Department, embodying compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to his community. His work has been a testament to his character and his belief in the importance of public service.
Following the attack, Joe was hospitalized with severe injuries. Though he has recently been released, his road to recovery will require time, resources, and support from those around him.
As Joe begins this challenging chapter, his wife, Beth, has been by his side every step of the way. Milliken’s GoFundMe campaign aims to alleviate some of the financial burden the Rodrigue family now faces. Donations will help cover essential expenses, including meals, household needs, and other costs, allowing Joe to focus fully on his recovery.
“Joe has always been there for his friends and his city,” Milliken emphasized. “Now, as he and Beth navigate this difficult journey, I’m reaching out for your support to help ease the burden on their family.”
Officer Rodrigue’s story is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of a community united in care and compassion. Every contribution brings Joe and his family closer to the peace and healing they so richly deserve.
Crime
Walls Police Officer Da’Quarius Burton Injured in Deadly Mississippi Crash, Mother Confirms He Is Alive and Safe
DESOTO COUNTY, Mississippi — Walls Police Officer Da’Quarius Burton was injured in a deadly two-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 61 in DeSoto County, Mississippi, but his mother has confirmed that he is alive, safe and recovering following the crash.
Burton, 27, of Memphis, Tennessee, was driving a Dodge Durango involved in the collision shortly after 8 p.m. Wednesday at the intersection of U.S. Highway 61 and Church Road in Walls.
The crash claimed the lives of three people traveling in a Honda Accord. The incident also left another passenger injured and involved employees of the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office Juvenile Detention Center.
Following the crash, misinformation circulated online suggesting that Burton had died and that he was a juvenile detention officer.
His mother, Tee Burton, publicly addressed the reports, firmly correcting the information and asking people to stop sharing unverified claims.
She confirmed that her son is alive, safe and okay. She also emphasized that he is not a juvenile detention officer.
In her statement, she expressed disappointment over reports falsely identifying her son as one of the people who died in the collision.
She also acknowledged the families who lost loved ones and urged the public to show compassion toward everyone affected by the tragedy.
Her statement included the following message:
“My son is alive!!! He is safe, and he is okay!!!”
She further asked people to verify information before publishing or reposting details that could cause unnecessary emotional distress to families.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, a northbound Dodge Durango traveling on U.S. Highway 61 collided with a westbound Honda Accord traveling on Church Road.
Three occupants of the Honda were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities identified the victims as:
- Latasha N. Dodson, 37, of Horn Lake, Mississippi, the Honda driver.
- Eddie L. Dodson Jr., 41, of Byhalia, Mississippi.
- Tamenshia R. Ford, 32, of Horn Lake, Mississippi.
Burton and another passenger in the Honda survived the collision but sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Their specific medical conditions have not been publicly detailed in the information provided.
The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that two people involved in the crash were employees of its Juvenile Detention Center.
One of those employees was Tamenshia R. Ford, who died in the collision. The second employee was seriously injured.
Sheriff Thomas E. Tuggle II expressed condolences following the death of the employee, describing the person as a respected and beloved member of the department.
“Our fallen officer was a respected and beloved member of our team,” Tuggle said.
The sheriff’s office also recognized the employee’s dedication, compassion and commitment to working with young people entrusted to the facility’s care.
State officials confirmed that the Dodge Durango involved in the collision belonged to the Walls Police Department.
The city’s mayor and police chief also confirmed that a Walls police officer was involved in the crash. Burton’s mother has since clarified that her son is the officer and that he survived.
An SUV displaying Walls Police Department identification was seen being towed from the crash scene Wednesday night.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the fatal collision.
Investigators are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have not released additional details about what led to the vehicles colliding.
The crash resulted in three deaths and left multiple people injured. Burton’s family has asked the public to respect the victims and their loved ones while avoiding the spread of false information.
The investigation remains ongoing.