Missing Louisiana man froze to death while lost in woods

A search for a man who was missing in Louisiana has a sad ending. The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Department says the body of 36-year-old Justin Bates was found in a wooded area, about ¾ mile from his home. In a social media post, the department said “From what is known at this time, it appears Justin became lost and succumbed to the severe cold weather.” Rapides Parish Deputies along with the Alexandria Police & Fire Departments had been searching for Bates since he disappeared on Thursday, January 11th. The social media post went on to say, “The Sheriff’s Office, at the family’s request, would like to take this opportunity to remind the public if you are participating in outdoor activities, you should monitor current weather conditions and forecasts and make sure all equipment is charged and/or fueled and in proper functioning condition.”