Baton Rouge Family Pleads for Help as Search Continues for Missing 15-Year-Old

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The Baton Rouge Police Department is treating the case as a high-priority investigation.

A climate of grief and uncertainty has descended upon the family of 15-year-old Ja’Derrius Minnieweather, who has been missing since June 5, 2026. The Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) is treating the case as a high-priority investigation, with search efforts focused around the Ghost Town area.

Who is Ja’Derrius?

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Ja’Derrius Minnieweather

15 years old • Student at Istrouma High School

Height

About 5 feet tall

Weight

Just under 100 pounds

Last known clothing clue

Family says the jacket seen in the released photo is the exact jacket he was wearing when last seen.

Family members describe Ja’Derrius as an active teenager who enjoyed riding dirt bikes, participating in rodeos, and spending time with friends.

Family’s Emotional Plea

B

Branderius Brooks

Father

“I just want my baby at home. If anybody knows anything or has seen anything, please reach out. I want my baby home bad.”

J

Jawanna Brooks

Grandmother

“I just want my grandson home, returned home safe. Somebody out there knows something. It’s been since Thursday since Ja’Derrius has been missing.”

The emotional strain on the family has become overwhelming. Jawanna Brooks said she and Ja’Derrius’s mother are under immense stress as the days pass without answers.

In a heartfelt message directed to her grandson, she added:

“I talk to you every day, boy. Please call me. Lord, somebody out there knows something about my grandbaby. Please tell us. Let us know.”

Police Ask Community for Help

BRPD investigators and the family are urging anyone with information about Ja’Derrius’s whereabouts to come forward immediately.

Crime Stoppers

225-344-7867

Emergency / Immediate information

Call 911

The search remains active, and investigators hope someone in the community may have seen Ja’Derrius or know something that could help bring him home safely.