Nathaniel Lee Melancon, 36, of Grand Coteau, Louisiana, was last seen on March 29, 2022, on Savoie Lane after speaking with his father, who said Nathaniel seemed depressed and declined an offer of help. Family members later reported it was out of character for him to be out of contact and grew increasingly worried.

On April 22, 2022, Nathaniel’s dark burgundy 2009 Honda Accord was found abandoned on State Route Highway 975 near Highway 190 in the Krotz Springs area of Pointe Coupee Parish; some reports place the location inside the Sherburne Wildlife Management Area. Around the time he disappeared, an unidentified person used Nathaniel’s credit card at a McDonald’s and a gas station, and investigators regard that activity as potentially connected to his disappearance.

The St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office lists him as a missing person. The family, still seeking answers and believing foul play may be involved, has held vigils and is offering a $20,000 reward for information. If anyone knew Nathaniel, saw his car in late March or April 2022, or has information about the credit card activity, please come forward.