The Ascension Parish community is in mourning after the sudden death of Deputy Joshua Dunaway, 40, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle crash Friday night. Dunaway, a respected member of the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, passed away at the scene following a collision on LA 44, leaving family, friends, and colleagues devastated by the news.
According to Louisiana State Police, the accident occurred just after 9 p.m. when Dunaway, riding his 2024 Suzuki motorcycle, struck the rear of a 2024 GMC Sierra. The GMC had recently turned right from Lee Drive onto LA 44. The impact of the crash resulted in severe injuries, and despite immediate emergency efforts, Dunaway was pronounced dead at the scene.
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The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office expressed profound sorrow at the loss of their colleague, emphasizing Dunaway’s commitment not only as a law enforcement officer but also as a friend, teammate, and loving father. “Joshua was more than a coworker to many of us; he was a friend, a teammate, and a loving father who cared deeply for his family,” the office said in a statement.
Though he was off-duty at the time of the crash, riding his personal motorcycle, Deputy Dunaway’s death highlights the unpredictable nature of life and the inherent risks that can arise during even the most ordinary moments. Fellow officers described him as a dedicated and approachable professional, always willing to offer support to his colleagues and the community he served.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities reviewing witness statements, traffic patterns, and other evidence to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the collision. The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office has asked the public to keep Dunaway’s family, friends, and fellow deputies in their thoughts during this difficult time.
Funeral arrangements for Deputy Dunaway have not yet been finalized, but details will be shared with the public so the community can honor the memory of an officer who served with honor, dedication, and care.