Natchitoches Parish Coroner Steven M. Enlow Clanton released the 2025 annual statistics report for the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office, outlining key trends in public health, safety, and mortality over the past decade.
According to the report, the Coroner’s Office handled a total of 950 cases in 2025, representing a 4.85 percent increase compared to figures from 2016. Natural deaths accounted for 359 cases, an increase of 7.81 percent over the same period.
Accidental deaths totaled 18 in 2025, reflecting a 21.74 percent decrease over the past decade. The majority of accidental deaths involved motor vehicle crashes, falls, or drug overdoses. While motor vehicle fatalities have declined, falls and overdoses continue to be areas of concern.
The report documented four homicides in 2025, a 60 percent decrease over ten years. Most homicide cases involved firearms. The reduction was noted as a significant improvement tied to ongoing violence-prevention efforts within the parish.
Suicides declined sharply, with one case reported in 2025, representing an 88.89 percent decrease compared to 2016 figures. The report attributes the decline to increased awareness and access to mental health resources.
Sexual assault cases increased to 14 in 2025, a 55.56 percent rise over the decade. Interdictions, which involve court-ordered mental health interventions, totaled 834 cases, reflecting a 2.23 percent increase.
“These figures reflect changes from 2016 through 2025,” the report noted, emphasizing the importance of long-term data in understanding shifts in community needs.
“We are seeing both encouraging and concerning trends in our community,” Clanton said. “While some categories have declined, others, such as mental health interventions, have increased. We remain committed to transparency, prevention, and compassionate service for every family in Natchitoches Parish.”
The full 2025 annual report and additional statistical details are available at natchitochescoroner.org.
