MINDEN, La. -- A 23-year-old Homer man is dead following an apparent suicide while in custody at Minden Police Department headquarters, but his family is questioning the circumstances surrounding his death.
Authorities say the initial investigation indicates that Demonta Reshawn Tate died by suicide early Tuesday while being held in a cell at the police department. However, Tate's father, Roy Hibble, said he does not believe his son would have taken his own life.
According to Hibble, Tate had much to live for, including his young daughter.
"He loved the little girl, he loved her," Hibble said.
The news of Tate's death has left family members searching for answers. Hibble said he plans to visit the Webster Parish Sheriff's Office, the outside agency that has been brought in to investigate the incident.
"Yeah, that's what they say, but I don't feel like he did that, because there ain't no way he gonna hang hi(m)self," Hibble said. "He don't think about doing nothing like that."
According to Minden Police Chief Jared McIver, Tate was taken into custody on a minor traffic violation and was being held at police headquarters because of an outstanding warrant from Claiborne Parish.
McIver said Tate was compliant and showed no signs of anxiety or distress when he was placed in a holding cell.
In the early morning hours, a person monitoring surveillance cameras reportedly noticed Tate standing upright near the cell's cot for an extended period. A welfare check was conducted, and officers allegedly discovered that Tate had hanged himself using a blanket, according to the chief.
Hibble said he hopes investigators will review and release evidence that could help explain what happened.
"So they should be able to show video footage of all of that then," he said.
The investigation into Tate's death remains ongoing. Officials have not released additional details, and the Webster Parish Sheriff's Office is expected to continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, help is available by calling or texting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or by contacting local emergency services.
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