US marshal shot dead serving arrest warrant in Louisiana | US crime

A federal agent was fatally shot while trying to help authorities capture a man who failed to show up for a sexual battery case in Louisiana, according to the U.S. justice department.

Clarence Frazier Jr., 48, has been charged with murder in the killing of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson, authorities said. Frazier could face life in prison or the death penalty if convicted of killing Hanson.

The justice department said Hanson participated in a joint law enforcement operation in Alexandria, Louisiana, to arrest Frazier for failing to appear at his hearing on sexual battery charges.

U.S. marshals and local sheriff’s office deputies executed a search warrant for Frazier’s home on Monday and identified themselves when they arrived, according to federal prosecutors.

Authorities said they eventually broke into Frazier’s home and found him barricaded in his bedroom. Frazier allegedly opened fire on officers, attacking Hanson and fatally wounding him.

Frazier was arrested after a standoff. Authorities said he was injured during this confrontation and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

A. expression Acting U.S. attorney Todd Blanche said Hanson “paid the ultimate price protecting our communities.”

“His sacrifice will never be forgotten and his service will forever remain an inspiration to everyone who wears the badge,” Blanche’s statement said.

Hanson is among more than 200 U.S. marshals, deputy chiefs, special assistants and constables who have died in the line of duty since 1794. call of honor on the agency’s website.

• Rae Walberg WWL LouisianaGuardian reporting partner , contributed