There is no longer any hope for Ja’Derrius Minnieweather: The police have issued an official announcement
A wave of shock and grief has swept through the Baton Rouge community this weekend following the heart-wrenching announcement by the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) regarding the fate of 15-year-old Ja’Derrius Minnieweather. The teenager, who had been the subject of an intense search for over two weeks, has been confirmed dead, extinguishing the fading hopes of his family and the community for a safe return.
A Turning Point in the Investigation

In an official statement released on Saturday, June 20, 2026, law enforcement officials confirmed the arrest of 50-year-old Maurice Parms. The suspect is currently facing charges directly linked to the death of Ja’Derrius Minnieweather. This arrest serves as a critical breakthrough, following a diligent and thorough investigation that has gripped the local area with concern since the teen’s disappearance.
In an effort to secure vital evidence and piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragedy, investigators with the Baton Rouge Police Department executed three separate search warrants throughout the course of the case. As of now, authorities are maintaining a strict level of confidentiality regarding the specific findings of these searches. The evidence gathered remains under seal to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation, and officials have declined to release further details to the public at this time.
The Final Moments of a Fading Case
The investigation reached a pivotal moment on Saturday evening when the BRPD conducted a “perp walk” at the Violent Crime Unit office. The procedure took place at the Louisiana State Police headquarters on Independence Boulevard, sending a clear message regarding the department’s resolve to hold those accountable for violent acts.
Reflecting on the timeline of this sorrowful case, Ja’Derrius Minnieweather had been missing since June 5, 2026. He was last seen in Baton Rouge at approximately 2 a.m. His mysterious disappearance ignited an immediate search and caused profound anxiety for his family and loved ones, marking the beginning of what would become a devastating ordeal for the community.
As the case moves forward, law enforcement remains focused on uncovering the complete truth behind this tragic loss. The arrest of Maurice Parms marks only the beginning of what will likely be a complex legal proceeding. Residents of Baton Rouge now await further updates from the authorities, hoping for closure and justice for Ja’Derrius as the investigation continues to unfold.