Thomas Jay Campbell Obituary, Death; Coroner IDs body discovered off Lobdell Highway in West Baton Rouge Parish

Thomas Jay Campbell Obituary, Death – Authorities in West Baton Rouge Parish have identified the man whose body was discovered earlier this week near Lobdell Highway in Port Allen. The West Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office confirmed that the deceased was 57-year-old Thomas Jay Campbell.

According to officials, Campbell’s body was located Wednesday night in a secluded area at the dead end of Lobdell Highway, just south of Interstate 10. Deputies responding to the scene found him at what appeared to be a makeshift campsite. The location, tucked away and somewhat isolated, suggested that Campbell may have been living there for some time.

The discovery prompted a response from both deputies and the coroner’s office, who worked to secure the area and begin an investigation. While the circumstances of Campbell’s death remain under review, authorities were quick to clarify that no foul play is suspected at this stage. The absence of signs of violence or struggle has led investigators to consider other possible causes.

The coroner’s office has not yet released an official cause of death, noting that further medical examinations and toxicology tests are necessary. These tests will help determine whether Campbell’s death was the result of natural causes, health-related issues, or environmental factors associated with living outdoors. Officials emphasized that such examinations can take time, and final results may not be available for several weeks.

The presence of the makeshift campsite highlights broader concerns about homelessness and vulnerable populations in rural and semi-rural parts of Louisiana. Individuals living in temporary campsites often face exposure to harsh weather conditions, limited access to medical care, and unsafe living environments. While it is not yet known whether Campbell was homeless or simply camping in the area, the setting of his death adds another layer of concern for community leaders and outreach organizations.

Local residents expressed surprise at the discovery, noting that the dead end of Lobdell Highway is not a heavily traveled area. The seclusion may have made the campsite less noticeable until deputies were called to the scene. For now, law enforcement officials are treating the case as a non-criminal death pending the results of the coroner’s examination.

The West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office is assisting the coroner in reviewing the case and gathering background information on Campbell. Authorities have not provided details about his recent activities or whether he had family in the area. In many cases like this, officials also work to notify relatives and connect them with resources following such a loss.

As the investigation continues, the coroner’s office reiterated that there is no indication of foul play and no threat to the public. Once the cause of death is determined, officials will provide additional updates.

For now, the community is left with questions as they await more details about what led to the death of 57-year-old Thomas Jay Campbell, whose life ended quietly at a campsite near Lobdell Highway.