Amite, Louisiana Tragedy: 34-Year-Old Joshua Brocato Wanted for First-Degree Murder in Deaths of Priscilla and Marc Brocato

AMITE, LA — April 8, 2025 — A small rural community in Amite, Louisiana has been shaken to its core following a chilling double homicide that has left residents grieving and authorities scrambling to locate a suspect. Authorities have identified 34-year-old Joshua Brocato as the prime suspect in a tragic case involving the deaths of two of his family members — 66-year-old Priscilla Brocato and 75-year-old Marc Brocato — whose bodies were discovered on their property Thursday afternoon.

Detectives have since issued two warrants for first-degree murder for Joshua, who remains at large. Officials believe he may still be in the surrounding region and have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings immediately. Sheriff’s deputies have not confirmed a motive at this time, but sources close to the investigation suggest that tensions within the family may have escalated in recent weeks.

“We are asking for the public’s help in locating Joshua Brocato,” said Sheriff Daniel Edwards during a press briefing on Friday. “This is an unimaginable tragedy that has struck this family and our entire community. We are doing everything in our power to bring this suspect to justice and provide answers for those grieving the loss of Marc and Priscilla.”

Neighbors and members of the Amite community expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Many knew Marc and Priscilla as kind and humble people, longtime residents who had lived on their rural property for decades. Marc was described as a hardworking man who took pride in maintaining the land, while Priscilla was known for her gentle spirit, her involvement in the local church, and her love of gardening.

“They were the kind of people you’d wave to every day, always had a warm smile,” said Lynette Paul, a neighbor who’s lived down the road for more than 20 years. “To hear that their lives were taken like this — and possibly by someone they loved — it’s just heartbreaking.”

Family members are devastated by the loss, struggling to come to terms with both the brutal nature of the crime and the fact that a loved one is suspected. Many took to social media to share memories of the couple and plead for justice, while others voiced concerns over Joshua’s mental health and past behavior.

Law enforcement agencies, including Louisiana State Police, have joined in the manhunt for Joshua Brocato. Officials warn that he may be armed and dangerous, and anyone who sees him should not attempt to engage. Instead, they are urged to call 911 or Crime Stoppers with any information on his whereabouts.

As the community mourns, preparations are underway for the memorial services of Priscilla and Marc. Loved ones have described the couple as devoted to one another, kind-hearted, and pillars of their family. The loss is particularly painful given the way their lives were taken — not through illness or age, but through an act of violence that defies explanation.

This devastating case continues to unfold, and investigators are working around the clock to gather more information, interview family members, and understand what may have led to this deadly act. In the meantime, the Brocato family and the Amite community are left trying to make sense of a tragedy that has torn through the heart of their town.

Anyone with information about Joshua Brocato’s location is asked to contact the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips through the Crime Stoppers hotline. Authorities are urging people to remain alert, cautious, and unified in support of the grieving family as they seek justice for Priscilla and Marc Brocato.

May their memories be a blessing, and may peace eventually come to the hearts left behind in the wake of this unthinkable tragedy.