IBERVILLE PARISH, La. (July 6, 2025) — A deep sense of shock and grief has fallen over the City of St. Gabriel and its law enforcement community following the tragic death of Capt. Devin “Curly” Boutte, a long-serving and widely admired officer with the St. Gabriel Police Department. Capt. Boutte, age 34, was found stabbed to death in his home on Legion Drive early Sunday morning.
Authorities from the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, who are leading the investigation, confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody. However, details about the suspect’s identity or possible motive have not yet been publicly released.
A Devastating Loss for the Community
St. Gabriel Police Chief Kevin Ambeau described the day as one of the darkest in the department’s history.
“It’s a dark day, not only at the police department, but in the City of St. Gabriel because he was loved by everybody,” Chief Ambeau said. “He was just that kind of officer that everybody loved.”
Capt. Boutte, affectionately known as “Curly” by his peers and community members, was more than just a dedicated officer — he was a cornerstone of St. Gabriel’s tight-knit community. Known for his compassion, approachability, and calm demeanor, he earned the trust and affection of not only his fellow officers but of residents across the city.
Whether it was responding to a call, supporting youth initiatives, or simply greeting neighbors with a smile, Capt. Boutte’s presence radiated empathy and strength. His passing has left an immense void that cannot be easily filled.
A Career of Commitment and Service
Capt. Boutte served many years in uniform, climbing the ranks to a leadership role that reflected his deep commitment to public service and his community. As a captain, he was seen as both a mentor and a protector — someone who not only enforced the law but embodied the values of integrity and respect.
He was admired by junior officers and deeply respected by fellow command staff for his unwavering professionalism and his ability to remain level-headed in the most difficult of situations.
Beyond his role as a police officer, Capt. Boutte was a friend, a brother, a son, and a community leader. He dedicated his life to making St. Gabriel a safer, stronger place — and in doing so, he became a part of so many people’s lives.
An Investigation Underway
The Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office is currently piecing together the events leading up to Capt. Boutte’s death. While authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody, they are urging the public to be patient and respectful as the investigation progresses.
More details are expected in the coming days, and investigators are calling on anyone with potentially relevant information to come forward. The nature of the crime — a fatal stabbing — has deeply unsettled the community, further compounding the grief surrounding the loss of a man so widely loved.
A Call for Unity and Prayer
St. Gabriel Mayor Lionel Johnson called for continued prayers and support for Capt. Boutte’s family, his fellow officers, and the community as a whole.
“Continue prayers for this city, for this police department, and for the family of the captain,” Mayor Johnson said. “I’m sure there will be a few tough days ahead, but we’ll get through it as a community.”
Flags are expected to be lowered to half-staff in St. Gabriel in Boutte’s honor, and plans for a public memorial service are already underway. City officials say they will provide updates once arrangements are finalized.
Remembering a Hero
As grief blankets the city, those who knew Capt. Devin Boutte are choosing to remember the joy, courage, and compassion he brought into the world. Tributes have begun pouring in on social media, with residents sharing memories of times Capt. Boutte offered words of encouragement, helped families through crises, or simply took the time to say hello.
In a profession often burdened with immense pressure and responsibility, Capt. Boutte stood out as a beacon of humanity — a reminder that policing can be about service, empathy, and community connection.
Final Words
St. Gabriel has lost a son, a leader, and a protector.
Capt. Devin “Curly” Boutte gave his life to a city that loved him, and his legacy will not be forgotten. As the investigation into his tragic death continues, the community stands united — mourning, remembering, and honoring the life of a man who made a lasting difference.
Rest in peace, Capt. Boutte. Your service and sacrifice will be remembered always.
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