Lafayette, LA – July 26, 2024 – The Lafayette Police Department is deeply mourning the tragic loss of Senior Corporal Segus Jolivette, who was killed in the line of duty during a SWAT operation yesterday.
Senior Corporal Segus Jolivette dedicated nearly 11 years to serving and protecting his community, having joined the Lafayette Police Department on November 5, 2013. An esteemed member of the SWAT negotiator team, Jolivette excelled as an active patrol officer and previously served as a school resource officer. His commitment extended beyond daily duties; he was a respected former juvenile detective and an active member of the honor guard. Jolivette also dedicated much of his free time to supporting the explorer program, helping Lafayette’s youth gain a better understanding of law enforcement operations and the importance of relationship-building in the community.
Previously with the Opelousas Police Department, Senior Corporal Jolivette leaves behind his loving wife and five children. His legacy of bravery and dedication will be remembered and honored by all who knew him.
The incident began around 9 a.m. on Thursday when the Marshal’s Office learned that the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Nyjal Hurst, was inside a home located in the 2500 block of Martin Luther King Drive. Upon the deputies’ arrival, two people exited the residence, confirming that Hurst was inside. Hurst then barricaded himself inside the house with two other individuals, one of whom was a juvenile.
During the ensuing standoff, Hurst fired multiple shots at officers. According to the Lafayette Police Department, two officers were shot, and bullet fragments hit two others. Fortunately, the three other officers are currently in good condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
The confrontation began when the City Marshal attempted to serve an arrest warrant at the residence. Nyjal Hurst was wanted by the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office for attempted first-degree murder in a drive-by shooting. Court records show he was arrested in Lafayette Parish in July 2023 for numerous charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Hurst had outstanding arrest warrants for aggravated second-degree battery and home invasion from the Jeanerette Police Department and for armed robbery, illegal use of weapons, attempted carjacking, domestic abuse battery with child endangerment by strangulation, and two counts of aggravated battery from the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office.
In response to the incident, multiple law enforcement agencies were called to assist.
The Lafayette Police Department and the broader law enforcement across the state are deeply saddened by the loss of Senior Corporal Segus Jolivette. His dedication, bravery, and service will be forever honored and remembered.
