LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- The death of Sr. Cpl. Segus Jolivette in Thursday's hostage standoff in Jeanerette has evoked expressions of condolence and tributes from all over Acadiana and beyond.
The Lafayette Police Department noted that Jolivette "dedicated nearly 11 years to serving and protecting his community" in a news release Friday morning.
"An esteemed member of the SWAT negotiator team, he excelled as an active patrol officer, and also previously served as a school resource officer," the release read. "His commitment extended beyond daily duties, as he was a respected former juvenile detective, an active member of the honor guard. Senior Corporal dedicated much of his free time supporting the explorer program, helping Lafayette’s youth to gain a better understanding of law enforcement operations and the importance of relationship building in our community."
"Becky and I are praying for the family of the officer who was tragically killed in the line of duty yesterday and for the quick recovery of three other Lafayette officers who are injured," U.S. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) posted on his Facebook page. "Louisiana will always be grateful and proud of our heroic police officers who put their lives at risk daily to protect their communities."
Rep. Clay Higgins (R-Lafayette) also posted a tribute on his Facebook page.
"America lost a very special SWAT cop today," Higgins posted. "One of the finest young men I’ve ever served with. Please God, lend Thy strength to his family."
St. Landry Parish District Attorney Chad Pitre said Jolivette's death hit his office especially close to home.
"The St. Landry Parish District Attorney's Office sends their heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Lafayette PD Cpl. Segus Jolivette. Especially, to his mother, Mary Jolivette who faithfully served this office for many years and who continues to serve her community," Pitre said. "Words cannot adequately express the impact of this tragic loss and the St. Landry Parish District Attorney's Office offers its love and support to the Jolivette family during this sad time."
Charles Broussard, president of the Police Association of Lafayette, said Jolivette "died a hero," and "died answering that final call for service."
"He was a father, husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend," Broussard said. "He was exceptional in every way and courageous in every action he undertook. He was a wonderful human being. We will honor his sacrifice. We will never forget what he did and how he served the people of our city and Acadiana."
Lafayette Parish School Superintendent Francis Touchet expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the district to the former Lafayette School Resource Officer.
"Cpl. Jolivette was also a member of the LPSS family, having protected the students at J.W. Faulk Elementary School and others as a School Resource Officer (SRO)," Touchet said. "He never hesitated to provide security at extracurricular events at Ovey Comeaux High School, Northside High, and other schools throughout Lafayette Parish. To his wife, children, and the Lafayette Police Department, we offer our prayers. Our LPSS family is deeply saddened by the loss of a man dedicated to the safety of our schools and our community."
