Investigators have released new information in the death of retired teacher Lana Brown Bradley. Deputies were called to Bradley’s home after her eldest son was unable to reach her. Two of her other sons lived at the residence, and her middle son had been working. According to investigators, the youngest son, Zachary Lavelle Jackson Jr., was found locked in a downstairs bathroom where deputies reported hearing slashing sounds. Sheriff Travis Patton stated that Jackson had placed body parts in a suitcase and disposed of others by flushing them down a toilet. Jackson has been charged with first- and second‑degree murder, mayhem, and tampering with physical evidence. He is being held without bond, and his next court date is scheduled for today.
Congressman Clay Higgins is urging Louisiana’s three major Republican U.S. Senate candidates to participate in a statewide televised debate. ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says Higgins’ push may stem from concerns about a “stealth candidacy” in the race. Cross notes that significant campaign spending has led to numerous candidate‑to‑candidate attacks, and Higgins wants voters to hear directly from the candidates rather than political action committees. While Higgins has not endorsed anyone in the GOP primary, Cross says it is unlikely he supports Bill Cassidy and believes Higgins wants a MAGA‑aligned candidate to advance to the runoff and general election.
Students living in Alexander Hall at Jackson State University have been moved to temporary housing due to electrical issues. University leaders report that power has been temporarily restored, but the fire marshal recommended the building remain unoccupied during repairs. The electrical problems were confirmed to have been caused by overnight thunderstorms on Saturday.
Cleco’s Canadian-based owners have reached an agreement to sell the utility to Stonepeak Energy and Bernhardt Capital Partners. Company representative Jennifer Cahill said Cleco is pleased with the development and that customers should not expect changes in service, adding that the company will continue to focus on maintaining reliability. State Representative Mike Johnson stated that Cleco will remain headquartered in Pineville and that all employees will be retained, in line with a legislative resolution passed last year. While the resolution is not binding, Johnson said it clarified expectations for the company and the Public Service Commission, which must approve the sale.
The Mississippi River at Natchez-Vidalia is at 33.23 feet and rising.
