St. Mary Parish Sheriff Gary Driskell Issues Statement on Grass Fire

Sheriff Gary Driskell is providing an update following an accidental grass fire initiated by vehicles on September 8, 2025.

At approximately 9:40 a.m., a deputy was dispatched to the levee near Wilson's Landing in the Patterson area in reference to a possible vehicle on fire. Upon arrival, the deputy located a vehicle that was on fire while parked on the levee roadway. The grass in the area was tall enough to come into contact with the vehicle, which may have contributed to the ignition.

While answering the call, the SMPSO unit also caught fire while parked on the levee roadway. 

An internal review is underway to assess the incident and determine whether adjustments to departmental protocols are needed, particularly as we near the fall and winter.

"We are grateful for the swift action of our fire department partners, whose quick response prevented a more serious situation," said Sheriff Driskell. "This serves as a critical reminder of the danger of parking on vegetation. We will be reinforcing proper procedures with our deputies to prevent similar occurrences in the future."

Sheriff Driskell also advises the public to use caution as we move into the fall and winter seasons, when dormant vegetation increases the risk of grass fires.