‘A tremendous loss’: Police officer, 44, dies unexpectedly while on duty

PONCHATOULA, La. (WVUE/Gray News) - A 44-year-old police officer in Louisiana has died unexpectedly while on duty.

According to the Ponchatoula Police Department, Cpl. Pricilla Dean Pierson died on Tuesday while working for the department.

Ponchatoula Police Chief Bry Layrisson said Pierson was found unresponsive at a supermarket around 10 a.m. where she was pronounced dead.

The department said the 44-year-old was working patrol when a person saw her unresponsive at the grocery store and called 911.

Police and fire units responded, along with the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the coroner’s office.

Layrisson said Pierson’s cause of death was not immediately known.

Pierson began her career with the department as a part-time communications officer, before rising to the rank of corporal in the patrol division.

She was with Ponchatoula police for six years.

Officials said Pierson leaves behind three children, two stepchildren and husband Larry Pierson, a captain who has served in the Ponchatoula Police Department for more than 25 years.

“She was a great person, wife and an outstanding mother,” Layrisson said. “Our community has experienced a tremendous loss today. We ask that you continue praying for Pricillia’s family, Larry, and her friends and co-workers.”

Funeral arrangements are currently pending.