St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies with the Special Operation Division recovered the body of 10 year old, Avani Cook, at approximately 730 this evening.
The young girl was located in a nearby pond in the Covington area.
The preliminary investigation indicates, for unknown reasons, the 10 year old walked to the area of the pond and entered it before drowning.
The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office responded to the scene and is conducting an investigation, along with Investigators of the Major Crimes Division, into the circumstances surrounding the drowning.
At this time, there is no evidence to indicate that this tragic incident is anything other than that.
“This is a horrible tragedy and my sincere condolences and sympathy goes to the family of the young girl lost, and for everyone who was involved with doing all they could to locate her safely. Unfortunately, that was not the case, and the loss of a young precious life affects our entire community. We will all continue to pray that God provides comfort for the family,” Sheriff Randy Smith said in response to the tragic drowning.