A weekend trip on the water turned tragic Saturday when a Jefferson Parish Fire Department captain died after a boating accident near Chef Menteur Pass, parish officials said. Authorities identified the victim as 45-year-old Dennis Casey Jr., a captain with the department. Officials have not yet released any details about what led to the crash.
Officials Identify Captain
According to WWL‑TV, Captain Ernie Porche identified the man killed as Dennis Casey Jr. and said the department is mourning his loss. The station reported that investigators have not released a cause of death while authorities continue to examine the area near Chef Menteur Pass.
Investigation And Autopsy
The Jefferson Parish Coroner's Office is responsible for determining the cause and manner of death and may order an autopsy as part of its standard procedures. In water-related deaths, the coroner typically works with law enforcement and marine authorities while toxicology results and findings from the scene are reviewed.
Boating Safety In Louisiana
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has repeatedly warned that failing to wear personal flotation devices and alcohol use are leading contributors to boating fatalities across the state. LDWF's Safe Boating Week materials cite recent statewide data and urge boaters to wear life jackets, use engine cut-off switches and complete boater-education courses before heading out.
What Comes Next
Parish officials said additional information will be released as the investigation moves forward and once notifications to family members are complete. The department and local leaders have not yet announced any memorial plans.
