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Louisiana Police Officer found Unresponsive during Patrol at a Grocery Store; Autopsy Reveals Heart Failure

Louisiana Police Officer found Unresponsive during Patrol at a Grocery Store; Autopsy Reveals Heart Failure

A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday (May 28) when a 44-year-old Ponchatoula Police officer passed away unexpectedly while on duty, according to the department.

Cpl. Pricilla Dean Pierson had an impressive six-year tenure with the department. Ponchatoula Police Chief Bry Layrisson reported that Pierson was discovered without signs of life at a Rouses supermarket at approximately 10 a.m. and was declared deceased at the location.

Layrisson announced on Wednesday that the autopsy results indicated heart failure as the cause of death. During an interview with Fox 8, it was revealed that Pierson’s heart disease went undetected, but multiple arterial blockages were discovered posthumously, with one blockage measuring at least 80 percent.

Pierson had been prescribed medication for high blood pressure and was under nighttime monitoring for potential sleep concerns, according to Layrisson.

Pierson started her career with the department as a part-time communications officer and eventually advanced to the rank of corporal in the patrol division. According to Layrisson, she is survived by her three children, two stepchildren, and her husband Larry Pierson, who has dedicated over 25 years of service as a captain in the Ponchatoula Police Department.

“She was a remarkable individual, a loving spouse, and an exceptional parent,” Layrisson expressed in a statement.

Louisiana Police Officer found Unresponsive during Patrol at a Grocery Store; Autopsy Reveals Heart Failure (1)

Layrisson stated that Pierson was on patrol when a citizen contacted them, expressing concern about her condition at the grocery store. Police and fire units, along with the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the parish coroner’s office, were dispatched to the scene.

“Our community has suffered a significant loss today,” Layrisson expressed. “Please keep Pricillia’s family, Larry, and her friends and co-workers in your thoughts and prayers.”

Funeral arrangements are being finalized. A solemn gathering was held on Thursday outside of police headquarters.

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