FBI and Louisiana State Police Join Mandeville Murder Investigation as Sheriff Urges Residents to Use Caution

MANDEVILLE, La. — The investigation into the murder of a 24-year-old woman found dead along a wooded trail near Pelican Park has expanded, with the FBI and Louisiana State Police now assisting local authorities.

The victim, identified as Lizeht Rodriguez, was discovered Wednesday afternoon, November 11, in a wooded area between Pelican Park and the Northlake Nature Center.

The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office has officially classified her death as a homicide.

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UPDATE: Woman Found Dead Near Pelican Park in Mandeville Identified as 24-Year-Old Lizeht Rodriguez

During a Friday news conference, Interim St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Bret Ibert confirmed that investigators have not ruled out the possibility that Rodriguez was killed by someone she did not know.

Ibert urged residents to take additional precautions while visiting parks and wooded trails, including avoiding isolated areas and traveling with others until investigators have a better understanding of what happened.

Authorities are also working to determine whether there is any ongoing threat to public safety.

Rodriguez’s family is pleading for answers as investigators continue searching for the person responsible.

Adding to the tragedy, Rodriguez’s recently adopted dog, Eve, was reportedly with her at the time of her death and remains missing. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a search for the animal is underway.

No suspect has been publicly identified in the latest information reviewed.

The Sheriff’s Office has also confirmed that Friday’s fatal shooting at a Covington construction site is unrelated to the Mandeville homicide investigation.

Anyone who was near Pelican Park or the Northlake Nature Center on Wednesday, November 11, or who may have information about Rodriguez’s death is urged to contact the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office at (985) 898-2338.

Please share! Someone may have information that could help investigators find whoever is responsible.