Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edwards and Police Chief TJ Morse Provide Latest Update as the search for missing 15-year-old Ja’Derrius Minnieweather enters a critical stage

Reward Raised to $10,000 as Search Intensifies for Missing Baton Rouge Teen Ja’Derrius Minnieweather

Authorities in Baton Rouge are urgently appealing for the public’s help as the search for missing 15-year-old Ja’Derrius Minnieweather enters its second week, with officials announcing a reward of up to $10,000 for information that could lead to answers.

Mayor-President Sid Edwards and Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse addressed the community during a press conference on June 17, stressing that time is critical as severe weather threatens to complicate search efforts.

“I’m asking Baton Rouge for help,” Edwards said. “This is a son of Baton Rouge.”

Missing Since June 5

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According to police, Ja’Derrius was last seen during the early hours of June 5 near Bradley Street in the area of North Foster Drive and Winbourne Avenue.

The teenager is described as being approximately five feet tall, weighing just under 100 pounds, and authorities say every lead is being thoroughly investigated.

Chief Morse acknowledged that detectives have received multiple tips, but none have yet led to Ja’Derrius being found.

“We still need the community’s help,” he said.

Reward Doubled Amid Race Against Time

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Capital Region Crime Stoppers announced that tips submitted within the next 48 hours could qualify for double the usual reward amount, increasing the total to as much as $10,000.

Officials are urging anyone who noticed suspicious activity around June 5, particularly near Bradley Street, North Foster Drive, and Winbourne Avenue, to come forward immediately.

Police emphasized that the approaching tropical storm makes the situation even more urgent.

“We need those tips now,” officials said.

Community Search Efforts Continue

Family members, friends, local residents, and volunteers from the United Cajun Navy have spent days searching throughout Baton Rouge.

The volunteer organization has assisted in examining wooded areas, roads, bridges, and other locations where clues might be found.

Despite the exhausting effort, loved ones refuse to give up hope.

Their message remains simple: someone knows something.

Family Pleads for Answers

As concern grows with each passing day, officials and family members continue to plead with anyone who may have information—no matter how insignificant it may seem—to contact Capital Region Crime Stoppers.

Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 225-344-STOP (7867).

With dangerous weather approaching and nearly two weeks having passed since Ja’Derrius was last seen, authorities say bringing the teenager home remains their top priority.

References

Louisiana First News: Reward offered for information on missing teen in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge Police Department
Capital Region Crime Stoppers
United Cajun Navy
Press conference by Mayor-President Sid Edwards and Police Chief TJ Morse, June 17, 2026