Tragic Double Drowning During Fishing Trip on Dorcheat Bayou Claims Lives of Two Webster Parish Residents
WEBSTER PARISH, LA — September 21, 2025
A peaceful fishing outing turned into a heartbreaking tragedy early Sunday morning along the banks of Dorcheat Bayou, south of Shongaloo, when two individuals lost their lives in a double drowning incident. Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker identified the victims as 54-year-old Annie Ruth Buggs of Bernice and 41-year-old Deandrea Perez Ford of Homer.
The Incident
According to Sheriff Parker, the two victims were fishing near a boat launch off Bobby Davis Road, a popular spot along the bayou known for its quiet waters and scenic surroundings. Evidence found at the scene suggests that the tragic events unfolded after one of the individuals fell from a chair into the water, prompting the other to enter the water in an attempt to save their companion.
“We cannot be sure which of them fell into the water,” Parker explained. “We found a chair in the water and another still on the bank. We learned from relatives that neither of the individuals could swim. It’s just a tragic event.”
Emergency Response
Dispatchers at the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office received an urgent call shortly before 8:30 a.m. on Sunday reporting a body floating in the bayou near the boat launch. Deputies immediately responded to the scene, joined by firefighters from Springhill, Cotton Valley, and Sarepta.
After recovering the body of Ms. Buggs from the water, deputies noticed that no keys were found for a vehicle parked nearby. This prompted the call for additional assistance from the Springhill dive team to conduct an underwater search.
Search and Recovery Efforts
The Springhill dive team’s search revealed the second victim, Mr. Ford, submerged approximately 10 feet underwater. Sheriff Parker highlighted the joint effort involved in the search and recovery operation.
“We really appreciate the assistance from all the agencies, and we want to thank the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office for notifying the families,” Parker said.
Both bodies have since been sent to Little Rock, Arkansas, where autopsies will be conducted. The results of the autopsies are expected to be released in approximately two weeks.
Community and Family Impact
The tragedy has deeply affected the Webster Parish community. Sheriff Parker expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of both victims.
“All of us want to convey our deepest sympathies to the families of these individuals,” he said. “We will keep them in our prayers.”
Family members have described the victims as beloved community members who enjoyed spending time outdoors. The knowledge that neither could swim adds a particularly somber note to the accident, underscoring the dangers posed by bodies of water even during routine activities like fishing.
Safety Reminders
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of water safety, especially for individuals who are unable to swim. Experts often stress the value of wearing personal flotation devices (PFDs) near or on water, maintaining constant vigilance, and never fishing alone in potentially hazardous environments.
Final Thoughts
As investigations continue and the community mourns, local law enforcement and emergency responders reaffirm their commitment to ensuring public safety and supporting the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
Anyone with additional information about the incident or who may have witnessed the events leading up to the drownings is encouraged to contact the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of Annie Ruth Buggs and Deandrea Perez Ford during this profoundly difficult time.
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