Overview

• Christopher Cooper’s mother reported that the suspect drove off with her son around 9:45 p.m. Tuesday at the I-55 Welcome Center near Kentwood.
• Authorities identify the suspect as 49-year-old James Casey Mercier of McComb, Mississippi.
• Police believe Mercier and the child are traveling in a white 2011 GMC Yukon with Mississippi license plate PJT070, suggesting possible interstate movement.
• Cooper is described as a light-skinned Black male, 3'2" and 40–50 pounds, last seen wearing a red shirt, black shorts and blue Crocs.
• Louisiana State Police issued the alert at 10:45 p.m. on behalf of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, which urges tips to 985-345-6150 or 911.