Captain Devin “Curly” Boutte Remembered: A Community Grieves After St. Gabriel Tragedy
ST. GABRIEL, La. — July 6, 2025 — The city of St. Gabriel, known for its small-town warmth and deeply connected residents, is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved public servants. Captain Devin “Curly” Boutte, a 34-year-old veteran of the St. Gabriel Police Department, was found tragically deceased in his home early Sunday morning on Legion Drive. The discovery has left his family, fellow officers, and the wider community in profound grief.
For those who knew him, the pain is heavy and raw. The incident not only marks the loss of a committed law enforcement leader, but also a trusted friend, a family man, and a figure whose impact was felt far beyond the uniform he wore. The circumstances surrounding his passing have prompted an ongoing investigation by authorities, and the case remains a top priority for the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office and other collaborating agencies.
As details continue to emerge, the city is uniting in grief, remembrance, and a shared commitment to honor the life of a man who gave so much to those around him.
A Leader On and Off Duty
Captain Devin “Curly” Boutte wasn’t just a member of the St. Gabriel Police Department—he was a cornerstone of it. Known affectionately by his nickname “Curly,” a nod to both his unmistakable hairstyle and charismatic personality, he had long been a familiar and reassuring presence in the community.
From his early years on the force, Capt. Boutte showed a natural ability to lead, inspire, and build bridges within the city. He rose through the ranks steadily, earning respect not only through his dedication to duty but through his warmth, humility, and deep connection to the people he served.
Whether responding to an emergency, visiting local schools to talk with students, or assisting at community events, Capt. Boutte was the embodiment of public service. He believed in showing up—not just when called, but when people needed someone to stand beside them. He had a gift for making people feel heard, valued, and safe.
In his role as Captain, he mentored younger officers and modeled a culture of integrity and compassion within the department. His leadership style was one of inclusion, kindness, and strength. His laughter was contagious. His integrity was unquestionable.
The Morning That Changed Everything
Early on the morning of Sunday, July 6, emergency responders were dispatched to a home on Legion Drive in St. Gabriel. What they discovered inside left them shaken: Capt. Boutte had sustained fatal injuries. Though paramedics arrived quickly, there was nothing they could do to save him.
Law enforcement immediately secured the scene, launching a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. The Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the case is being handled as a top-level priority, with additional support from state authorities to ensure all evidence is carefully examined and leads are thoroughly pursued.
At this time, no suspect has been publicly named, and investigators have not shared further information regarding the motive or possible persons of interest. However, officials have confirmed that this is an active and ongoing criminal investigation, and they are urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist in solving the case.
The shockwaves from the news reached across the parish and beyond. Within hours, tributes began pouring in from law enforcement agencies across Louisiana and neighboring states, all expressing condolences and support.
Community in Mourning
By Sunday afternoon, the impact of the tragedy was visible across St. Gabriel. Outside the police department, a growing memorial of flowers, candles, handwritten notes, and photographs began to take shape. Residents young and old came to pay their respects, many of them in tears.
City Hall lowered its flags to half-staff. Churches held prayer vigils. Families spoke in hushed tones over dinner tables. And those who had once received help, guidance, or comfort from Capt. Boutte found themselves grappling with the immense weight of loss.
“Devin wasn’t just a cop,” one resident shared, pausing to place a white rose at the memorial. “He was the kind of person you called when you didn’t know who else to turn to. He made you feel safe—not just physically, but emotionally.”
Community leaders described Capt. Boutte as a bridge between neighborhoods, faith groups, and city government. He was active in mentoring programs for at-risk youth and had participated in countless initiatives to build trust between law enforcement and the people they serve.
A Family’s Devastating Loss
At the center of this grief is a family left shattered. Capt. Boutte was a son, a father, a husband, a brother, and a cherished relative whose presence was a steady source of strength and joy. Loved ones have described him as deeply devoted to his family—someone who made time for those who mattered, no matter how demanding his job was.
He was the kind of father who made it home in time for school plays and basketball games. He was the kind of son who never forgot to call his mother on Sunday afternoons. And he was the kind of husband whose eyes lit up every time his partner entered the room.
For them, the tragedy is not a headline or an investigation—it is a devastating reality that has turned their world upside down.
The family released a brief statement thanking the community for its support and requesting privacy as they navigate this unthinkable loss. Plans for memorial services are underway, with details to be shared in the coming days.
A Department Without Its Heart
At the St. Gabriel Police Department, the grief is heavy and palpable. Capt. Boutte wasn’t just a superior officer—he was a brother in uniform. He was a steady hand during chaotic moments, a calm voice on the radio, and a relentless advocate for his team.
His desk now sits empty. His patrol car has been adorned with flowers and tributes. Fellow officers have shared stories of his mentorship, his unwavering commitment to fairness, and the ways he reminded them why they chose this path.
One officer, visibly emotional, said, “He taught me everything I know about this job. And more than that—he taught me how to be the kind of man my kids could be proud of.”
A City Unites for Justice
In the days following the tragedy, city leaders have pledged full support for the investigation and vowed to pursue justice with the same determination Capt. Boutte showed throughout his career.
Mayor and city council members have asked for patience and unity, assuring the public that no resource will be spared in solving the case. Town meetings have been held to keep residents informed, and counselors have been made available to both the public and members of the police department.
St. Gabriel, while in mourning, is also resolved. Residents are circulating flyers, sharing updates, and pushing for answers. There is a collective sense that the best way to honor Capt. Boutte’s memory is to ensure the truth comes to light and that those responsible are held accountable through the proper legal channels.
Honoring a Legacy
Efforts are already underway to memorialize Capt. Boutte’s life and contributions to the city he loved. Plans have been proposed to rename a stretch of Legion Drive in his honor, and discussions are ongoing about establishing a scholarship in his name for young people pursuing careers in law enforcement or public service.
His name will be added to local and state memorials honoring fallen officers, but more importantly, his legacy will live on in the values he embodied every day: courage, compassion, fairness, and service.
“His badge was a symbol,” one resident said during a vigil. “But his heart—that’s what made him a hero.”
Final Reflections
The loss of Capt. Devin “Curly” Boutte is a heartbreak that words can hardly contain. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled—a silence that echoes in the hearts of his family, his department, and the people of St. Gabriel.
Yet even in mourning, the community finds itself inspired by the life he led. A life of purpose. A life of meaning. A life that touched countless others and reminded everyone of the good that can exist in the world, even during the hardest times.
As the city moves forward, one thing is certain: the legacy of Capt. Boutte will continue to guide, uplift, and protect St. Gabriel. Not through presence, but through memory. Not through words, but through example. And not just for today, but for generations to come.
