At approximately 2 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 3, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Bogalusa Police Department that a citizen had come to the police department and reported a murder that had occurred at a residence south of Bogalusa.

Patrol deputies went to the scene at 61480 Shorty Bush Road and found Charles Joseph “Joey” Mixon, 41, outside the residence.

According to a report from the sheriff’s office, Mixon was detained for investigation and Sheriff’s Office detectives were notified. Detectives responded to the scene and began their investigation, which included questioning Mixon and confronting him about the crime that had allegedly been committed. Mixon allegedly confessed to shooting a female and then disposing of her body. He led detectives to the site where detectives found a body that had been badly burned, making positive identification impossible.

The Louisiana State Police crime lab was called to the scene. They remained at the scene most of the day, processing the crime scene for evidence.

Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives are continuing to interview persons who might have information concerning the crime and continuing to sort through collected evidence. In addition, detectives are processing the victim’s vehicle, purse and other personal belongings, hoping to gain additional information about circumstances that may have contributed to the murder. At this time, the motive for the murder has not been clearly defined.

The family of the victim, who was a resident of St. Tammany Parish, has been notified. The victim’s name will be released once DNA evidence positively confirms her identity. Mixon has been transferred to the Washington Parish Jail where he is being held on a charge of second-degree murder. No bond has been set at this time.

Detective Lieutenant Tom Anderson, who was at the scene throughout the day yesterday, stated, “Washington Parish detectives are so appreciative of the help received from the Louisiana State Police and the Bogalusa Police Department. We have an excellent working relationship with each of these agencies and thank them for all they do to assist us at any time we need their help.”

Sheriff Randy Seal commented, “Our officers and officers from other agencies have provided valuable assistance in this investigation. We are continuing to look at all aspects of this case in an effort to determine the motive for the crime and whether or not any other person has knowledge of what happened. Our deepest sympathies are extended to the family of the victim and I assure them we will continue to investigate until we know as many details as possible.”