A 43-year-old man who suffered a medical emergency while in Morgan City police custody has died, prompting a state-level investigation into what unfolded inside the station. Louisiana State Police identified him as Hilton John Hebert III and said officers and emergency medical personnel tried to save his life after the emergency on Saturday. Hebert was later pronounced dead by the St. Mary Parish coroner, and investigators say the case remains under active review.
What Louisiana State Police reported
Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division were called in by the Morgan City Police Department to look into the in-custody death, according to Louisiana State Police. The agency said Hebert suffered a medical emergency while he was in custody and that officers, along with emergency medical staff, attempted life-saving measures. He was pronounced dead by the St. Mary Parish Coroner’s Office.
State police asked anyone with photos, video or other information related to the incident to share it with investigators through the agency’s online reporting portal or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Local coverage
Local outlets have largely echoed the state agency’s account and reported that Morgan City officials offered condolences to Hebert’s family. As noted by KLFY, authorities said they do not suspect foul play at this time, although the investigation remains ongoing. That local reporting closely tracks the details in the Louisiana State Police release and adds a public expression of sympathy from the Morgan City Police Department.
How to help investigators
Investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who was in or near the Morgan City Police Department on Saturday and who may have captured images or video of relevant activity, according to Louisiana State Police. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the LSP online reporting portal or by calling the Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007. Trooper Monique Lavergne with Troop I’s public affairs section is listed as a contact at 337-262-5880.
The agency said no additional information is being released while detectives continue to gather evidence and conduct interviews.
Statewide context
This latest in-custody death comes as Louisiana State Police continue to face increased scrutiny over deaths involving law enforcement across the state. Earlier this month, a high-profile case ended in a tentative 4.8 million dollar settlement, according to AP News. Advocates and legal observers argue that independent and transparent investigations are essential whenever someone dies in custody, both to maintain public trust and to ensure accountability.
For now, officials say medical findings from the coroner and any further details from local authorities will be released when they are ready. With only limited information made public so far, investigators are urging the community to hold off on speculation while detectives work through the facts. Coverage will be updated as new official statements or findings are issued by Louisiana State Police and Morgan City officials.
