Acadiana residents are reaching out in support and mourning following the tragic death of Cpl. Segus Jolivette, the Lafayette Police Officer killed in the line of duty Thursday following a standoff in Jeanerette.

The Opelousas Police Department, where Jolivette got his start as a police officer, announced the tragic death of an officer who was called “a dedicated member of our law enforcement family who tragically lost his life.”

Jolivette’s career began in the Junior Police Academy with the Opelousas Police Department. According to the statement, Jolivette exhibited an early passion for law enforcement and participated in several ride-alongs with the OPD. After graduating, he joined the department as a patrolman and served the community with “unwavering dedication and professionalism.”

“Officer Segus Jolivette will always be remembered for his bravery, his kindness, and his commitment to making our community a safer place. We honor his memory and thank him for his service,” according to the statement.

According to the Lafayette Police Department, Jolivette dedicated nearly 11 years to serving and protecting his community, having joined Lafayette Police Department on November 5, 2013.

He was described as an esteemed member of the SWAT negotiator team and excelled as an active patrol officer, and also previously served as a school resource officer.

“His commitment extended beyond daily duties, as he was a respected former juvenile detective, an active member of the honor guard. Senior Corporal dedicated much of his free time supporting the explorer program, helping Lafayette’s youth to gain a better understanding of law enforcement operations and the importance of relationship building in our community.”

Local leaders in Iberia Parish like Parish President Larry Richard, the New Iberia Police Department and Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office have also issued statements concerning the tragic loss of the police officer.”

“His legacy of bravery and dedication will forever be remembered,” Richard said in a statement Friday morning. “As we mourn his loss, let us honor his sacrifice by supporting one another and upholding the values of service and integrity he embodied. May we find strength in our unity and strive to carry forward his spirit of heroism.”

U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins, a former law enforcement officer, said he worked with Jolivette in the past and called him one of the finest officers he has known.

“America lost a very special SWAT cop today,” Higgins said in a short statement. “One of the finest young men I’ve ever served with.”

U.S. Sen. John Kennedy also sent his condolences to the family of Jolivette as well as the other three officers injured in the incident.

“Becky and I are praying for the family of the officer who was tragically killed in the line of duty yesterday and for the quick recovery of three other Lafayette officers who are injured,” Kennedy said. “Louisiana will always be grateful and proud of our heroic police officers who put their lives at risk daily to protect their communities.”

Jolivette leaves behind a wife and five children. 

A vigil was scheduled Friday evening at Jeanerette City Hall to mourn the loss of Jolivette.