UPDATE ON INVESTIGATION – ATTEMPTED ARSON AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, DERIDDER

UPDATE ON INVESTIGATION – ATTEMPTED ARSON AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, DERIDDER
June 1, 2025 – 2:20 AM

June 1, 2025 – 2:20 AM,,,,The DeRidder Police Department has released a critical update regarding the ongoing investigation into the attempted arson that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of DeRidder. Thanks to tireless efforts from investigators and crucial surveillance footage, significant progress has been made in identifying a suspect and a vehicle believed to be involved in the incident.

Detectives from the DeRidder Police Department, who have been working around the clock since the incident occurred, have successfully developed both a suspect and a vehicle description using security camera footage from surrounding areas, including local highways and private properties. As a result of this investigation, they were able to identify a heavy-set white male suspect driving a small, dark-colored SUV.

In a striking development, detectives have confirmed that the suspect was booked in another parish jail shortly after the attempted arson—on unrelated charges. Through this booking, additional identifying details and evidence were obtained, helping investigators link the individual to the attempted arson. The suspect is believed to have sustained moderate burns to his arms and legs, consistent with injuries often associated with fire-related activity.

Chief Craig Richard of the DeRidder Police Department stated that detectives now feel confident they have sufficient evidence for an arrest and are convinced that the suspect acted alone, with no indication of involvement or conspiracy with other individuals. Authorities stress that a full press release and formal statement will be made in the coming days once the official arrest is processed and more details can be released publicly.

“We believe this early update will ease concerns for churchgoers preparing to attend services this morning,” said Chief Richard. “Your safety remains our highest priority, and we want to assure the public that this act was isolated and is being dealt with swiftly and thoroughly.”

The initial incident occurred during the early morning hours on Saturday, May 31st, when the suspect’s vehicle approached the First Baptist Church of DeRidder from Hwy 171 South, remained at the location for a short period, and then returned in the same direction. Immediate response by the DeRidder Police Department, assisted by the DeRidder Fire Department, Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Department, and the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, helped to contain the situation before greater damage could be done.

Authorities are continuing to request public assistance. If you or someone you know has surveillance footage covering Highways 171, 26, or 112 between 12:00 AM and 3:00 AM on the morning of May 31st, or if you have seen a person matching the suspect’s description—particularly someone with recent burns to their limbs—please contact the DeRidder Police Department at 337-462-8911.

Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted through Crimestoppers at 337-462-8918. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward, and your identity will remain confidential.

As the investigation continues, no further information will be released at this time. The community is encouraged to stay alert, support one another, and continue to report any relevant details. The swift progress in this case is a testament to the cooperation between agencies and the public’s willingness to assist in ensuring the safety and security of our community.

Stay tuned for further updates as they become available.