UPDATE: Missing Driver in Assumption Parish Crash Found Deceased

Lafourche Parish - On March 8, 2024, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a deceased body located in Bayou Lafourche near the 1800 block of LA Hwy 308. Upon arrival, Troopers were able to identify the recovered body as that of Gilbert Bunch Jr. Bunch was found approximately 6 miles south of the initial crash location. This crash remains under investigation.

Troop C has investigated 5 fatal crashes resulting in 5 fatalities in 2024.

TROOP C NEWS RELEASE

March 3, 2024

Driver Missing Following Assumption Parish Crash

Labadieville – On March 2, 2024, shortly before 4:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C began investigating a single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 398 at the intersection with Louisiana Highway 1. Following the crash, 64-year-old Gilbert Bunch Jr. (black, male, 5’6”, last seen wearing dark-colored clothing) of White Castle is still missing.

The preliminary investigation revealed Bunch was driving a 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis east on LA Hwy 398 when he failed to stop for a stop sign at the intersection with LA Hwy 1. The Mercury crossed LA Hwy 1, traveled off the roadway, and into Bayou Lafourche where it became partially submerged.

The passenger of the Mercury was able to exit the vehicle and swim toward the bank. Bunch was last seen in the water near the vehicle prior to it becoming fully submerged. Upon removal of the Mercury from the water, Bunch was not found.

Troopers, along with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office, Lafourche Parish Volunteer Fire Department District 1, and volunteers with specialized equipment have searched Bayou Lafourche since the crash. Despite efforts, Bunch has not been located.

Troopers are asking anyone with information regarding this crash to please contact Troop C at (985) 857-3680.

Contact Information:

TFC Ross Brennan

Louisiana State Police

Public Affairs Section – Troop C

Office: (985) 857-3680

[email protected]