08/15/2026
The search for Mr. Pate did not yield the results that everyone was hoping and praying for the outcome to be. The initial search area widened late yesterday, due to new information. Additional information, from a homeowners security camera, appeared to widen the area even further this morning. Before searchers could reach the new area, an adjacent landowner, to where he had been seen on security camera footage, discovered Mr. Pate. Sadly, Mr. Pate was deceased, with his dog still at his side. He was found approximately 3/10ths of a mile from where he was seen on camera and approximately one mile from where his residence is located, which is where he and his dog departed from initially.
We would once again like to take a moment to recognize and thank those that came together, with one goal in mind, to bring this gentleman home. We would like to thank: DeSoto Parish SO K9 Team, Aviation Unit and Chief Deputy Monica Cason. With only a population of approximately 3,000 more residents than Shelby County, they have an amazing department. Their number of personnel, equipment, facilities and training compare to our state law enforcement, and likely exceeds what is found in some states. We couldn't have better neighbors and are fortunate for their constant desire to help the residents of our county.
Joaquin VFD, Huxley VFD and Tenaha VFD were all on-scene, with JVFD supporting operations with the largest footprint present, due to the location. Not only did they supply lots of personnel, they made sure that everyone had food and water available. PLEASE show your support for your local VFD. These folks are extremely giving of their time in every situation where they can be of assistance, certainly not just fires, often creating personal sacrifices for them and their families.....to help others in need....as VOLUNTEERS.
Allegiance EMS remained on-scene until needed elsewhere. Not only were we anticipating a possible need for them for Mr. Pate, but it was comforting for them to be present, in the extreme heat, in case any of the search party needed their assistance. When they were forced to leave, JVFD backfilled this void with highly-trained personnel and equipment.
We also want to thank Pct. 3 Constable Roy Cheatwood, Pct. 5 Constable John Pope, Mangum Funeral Home, Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Melba Rodgers and Pct. 3 Commissioner Stevie Smith. The vast knowledge of the elected officials, in your precinct, is always of great value.
Additionally, we want to thank the numerous neighbors and other volunteers who showed up to offer their assistance. A families friends and neighbors generally play a hugely important role in situations such as this, simply through their specific geographic knowledge and their ability to provide comfort to a worried family.
And lastly, I want to thank our CID and Patrol deputies that were present. Several of these folks stayed over to assist. Their continued contribution grew in importance when we had two nearly simultaneous suicidal subjects to deal with elsewhere, one of whom attempted to cut/stab our Mental Health Deputy, while we continued to search for Mr. Pate.
I spoke to Mrs. Pate early this morning, along with Constable Cheatwood, and she expressed her appreciation for all of the searchers and the job they had done yesterday. Please keep the Pate Family in your thoughts and prayers.
