Cascio reported dead following alert 

 STAFF REPORT  UPSO

 Jonathan Cascio, the suspect involved in a Friday evening pursuit near Downsville, is deceased, according to the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office. 

The incident began about 6 p.m. October 9 when deputies attempted a traffic stop. According to the sheriff’s office, the driver fled and later fired multiple shots from the vehicle, striking a deputy’s patrol unit. 

The pursuit ended on Rocky Branch Road near the Point community. Authorities issued an emergency alert warning residents about a suspect believed to be on foot in the area. The alert was canceled after the suspect was located.