Missing driver identified as homicide victim in Berwick

Willie Francis, 23, of Bayou Vista, who was identified as a missing driver has been confirmed as a homicide victim, Traci Landry, spokeswoman for St. Mary Parish Sheriff Mark Hebert said.

Francis’ body was found in ditch off La. 182 between Tournament Boulevard and Old Spanish Trail in Berwick, Landry said.

The homicide investigation is being conducted by sheriff’s personnel and Berwick police, she said.

Earlier today, a sheriff’s news release stated there was concerned for the welfare of a man whose vehicle was found abandoned on the side of U.S. 90 with its engine running.

At about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday a deputy patrolling the Bayou Vista area saw a vehicle parked on the side of the westbound lane of U.S. 90 near Cameron Iron Works, Hebert said.

 The deputy found the vehicle with the engine running.

The driver of the maroon Lincoln four-door sedan, Francis, was not at the scene, Hebert said.

Francis’s last known communication occurred at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, according to the sheriff.

The body was discovered about 10:30 a.m. today.

Because of the circumstances under which the vehicle was found, St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s detectives are investigating the abandoned vehicle as a welfare concern, Hebert said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the St. Mary parish Sheriff’s Office at 985-384-1622 or 337-828-1960.