Kayaker helps authorities identify deceased male found in Adam’s Bayou

PINEHURST — Authorities have identified the deceased male found June 1 in Adam’s Bayou.

“The identification of the deceased black male has been identified as Niaja Cormier of Houston, TX, originally from Lafayette, LA,” a release from Pinehurst Police Lieutenant Jocelyn Trussell stated.

According to Trussell, at 2:28 p.m. Sunday, the Pinehurst Police Department received a call from a local resident who was kayaking in Adam’s Bayou and came upon personal belongings.

Niaja Cormier

“Officers arrived at the location and located car keys, tennis shoes and identification,” Trussell said. “It was found that Mr. Cormier was listed as a missing person on May 29, 2024, by Beaumont PD and his next of kin was notified.”

Trussell expressed the department’s thoughts and prayers to Cormier’s family and friends.

Search for answers

It was last week that a metal vehicle visor-clip located on the deceased man’s belt that was around his waist stated, “St. Joseph Motorist’s Prayer.”

Also found was a vehicle nameplate with the word, “CHEYENNE,” on it.

That information was released to the public by Pinehurst Police, which was looking to identify the male.

“Officers attempted to recreate the tattoo that was found in the middle of the subject’s chest,” Trussell said.

“The tattoo was faint and is not an exact representation. Some characters were not easily seen. The photos shared are replicas or recreated.”

Pinehurst Police received a report of a deceased person at 10:46 a.m. June 1.

Fishermen discovered the body.

Pinehurst officers, with the assistance of Orange County Emergency Services District 3, responded to Adams Bayou, south of the Interstate 10 turnaround.

Justice of the Peace Hershel Stagner ordered an autopsy.

“At this time, there is no foul play suspected, but this case is an ongoing investigation to find his identity,” police initially stated.

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