Leslie Turk

Another body found in Jeff Davis Parish

by Leslie Turk

The search for a Jeff Davis Parish teenager missing since Nov. 2 appears to have come to an end, as authorities believe the body of 17-year-old Brittney Gary was found this weekend by a family search party. Gary's is the seventh body discovered in rural parts of the parish since 2005 and the fifth to turn up within a two- to three-mile radius. The deaths have fueled speculation that a serial killer may be on the loose in Jeff Davis Parish.

KPLC-TV7 reported on the latest tragedy Saturday, noting that the FBI and Louisiana State Police have joined local law enforcement in the investigation:

Jeff Davis Sheriff Ricky Edwards says tattoos on the body are similar to the tattoos described on the missing 17 year old, Brittney Gary, but no confirmation of identity has been made at this time.  Jennings Police Department and the Calcasieu and Jefferson Davis Parish Coroner's Offices collected evidence and took statements from witnesses who saw activity in the area. The body was taken to Calcasieu Parish Coroner's Office for an autopsy and identification.

Brittney Gary went missing Sunday November 2nd after purchasing minutes for her prepaid cell phone at the Jennings Family Dollar Store. Surveillance video shows Brittney making the purchase around 5:30 Sunday, then walking out on foot. Authorities say she appeared to be alone and was believed to be walking the five or so blocks home.