Richard Johnson Obituary, Death – Authorities in Caddo Parish have identified the man who was discovered in Twelve Mile Bayou in north Shreveport earlier this week. According to the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office, the individual has been identified as 48-year-old Richard Johnson. Officials confirmed his identity through fingerprint analysis after he was found in the water late Monday afternoon.
Emergency responders were called to the scene at approximately 3:20 p.m., where they located Johnson in the bayou. Paramedics and police officers worked together to recover him safely from the area. Despite their efforts, Johnson was later pronounced deceased.
The Shreveport Police Department has launched an active investigation to determine what led to Johnson’s death. Authorities have stated that at this point, it is too early to draw conclusions about the events that may have preceded the incident. Detectives are gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage from nearby areas to establish a clearer understanding of the circumstances.
Officials have confirmed that an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause and manner of death. The results from the autopsy will help investigators clarify whether any medical, environmental, or accidental factors may have played a role.
The coroner’s office has been in contact with Johnson’s family to inform them of the situation. Loved ones are now awaiting the autopsy report for more details. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, officials have not released additional information about Johnson’s background or activities prior to the incident.
Authorities have not reported any immediate signs of foul play but emphasized that the investigation is ongoing until all findings are complete. The Shreveport Police Department’s Marine Patrol Unit and Crime Scene Investigators have both assisted in processing the location where Johnson was found, ensuring that all potential evidence from the water and surrounding area was properly documented.
The area around Twelve Mile Bayou is known for its natural beauty and is often visited by local residents for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Law enforcement officials have reminded the public to take appropriate safety precautions when near open water, particularly during seasonal changes when currents can be unpredictable.
Community members have expressed condolences to Johnson’s family following the news. Some who frequent the area shared that it can be challenging to navigate certain parts of the bayou, especially during high water levels or after rainfall. Authorities echoed this concern and urged anyone spending time near the water to remain alert and avoid risky conditions.
The Shreveport Police Department has not released any information suggesting that other individuals were involved in the incident, though investigators continue to seek any witnesses who may have been in the area at the time. Those with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Shreveport Police Investigations Division or share tips anonymously through Caddo Crime Stoppers.
While the investigation continues, the coroner’s office will complete its standard review process, which includes a toxicology report in addition to the autopsy findings. The full results are expected to take several weeks before they are made public.
Officials have expressed their condolences to Johnson’s loved ones and assured the community that every step is being taken to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.
At this stage, no further information has been released regarding the events leading up to Johnson’s discovery or what might have brought him to the area of Twelve Mile Bayou that day. The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office and the Shreveport Police Department will release updates as more details become available.
Residents with any information that may assist authorities are urged to come forward. Police continue to emphasize that even small details can be helpful in reconstructing the timeline and understanding the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
For now, the focus remains on completing the investigation and providing answers to Johnson’s family as they navigate this difficult time.
