A suspect hiding beneath a bush was located within minutes after Troopers used drone technology to assist during a traffic stop in Rapides Parish.

On September 1, 2026, at approximately 8:16 p.m., a Troop E Trooper conducted a traffic stop at Bolton and North 18th streets. A rear passenger, identified as 21-year-old Antoine Raymond, fled on foot while the Trooper detained the vehicle’s three remaining occupants and relayed Raymond’s description and direction of travel to responding Troopers.

A Trooper deployed a drone and, in less than 10 minutes, detected a heat signature beneath a nearby bush. Troopers were directed to the location and arrested Raymond without further incident. Ammunition was found on him, and a subsequent search of the area revealed a firearm.

During the investigation, Troopers identified Raymond as the driver who had fled from a Trooper during a separate incident the previous month, when a firearm was also recovered. At the time of this arrest, Raymond was on bond for five counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, discharging a weapon in a school zone, and narcotics charges. He was booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

This incident highlights how technology, teamwork, and quick coordination help Troopers locate fleeing suspects while reducing risks to the public and responding personnel. Louisiana State Police remains committed to using available resources to protect our communities