Bernice, LA — A shocking and deeply tragic incident has shaken the quiet town of Bernice after a father was found dead and his son arrested following a deadly hatchet attack.
On the morning of Saturday, July 12, 2025, deputies with the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office (UPSO) responded to a distressing call reporting a possible stabbing at the Bernice Villa Apartments, located at 115 W. 4th Street. Upon entering the residence, authorities discovered the lifeless body of 71-year-old Delmer Watts Sr., who had suffered fatal injuries consistent with a violent assault.
The UPSO Criminal Investigations Division (CID) responded swiftly and launched a full investigation. Evidence gathered at the scene indicated that Mr. Watts had likely been deceased for several hours before deputies were contacted.
Investigators quickly identified the victim’s son, 36-year-old Delmer Watts Jr., as the prime suspect. Watts Jr., who remained at the scene, was taken into custody without incident. Authorities recovered a hatchet believed to be the weapon used in the attack, along with additional evidence directly linking him to the crime.
Officials noted that Watts Jr. appeared to be under the influence at the time of questioning and had a known history of conflict with his father — a longstanding family tension that may have escalated into this fatal encounter.
Delmer Watts Jr. has been formally charged with First-Degree Murder and booked into the Union Parish Detention Center. The case remains under active investigation as detectives work to determine the full circumstances leading up to the deadly assault.
The community of Bernice is left in disbelief, mourning the violent loss of a longtime resident and grappling with the tragedy of a family torn apart. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office as they continue to pursue justice in this heartbreaking case.
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