LAKE CHARLES, La. — Part of Prien Lake Park in Lake Charles was closed off by crime scene tape Monday morning after a body was discovered on a bench, according to the Lake Charles Police Department.

Police said the person appeared to have died by suicide. No additional details about the individual, including identity, age, or gender, were released. Authorities also did not provide information about how long the person may have been at the park before being found.

The scene was processed and cleared before 10:30 a.m., and the restricted area of the park was reopened to the public afterward.

Prien Lake Park, a popular outdoor spot in Lake Charles, often draws families, walkers, and people fishing or relaxing along the water. The portion of the park where the body was found was temporarily blocked off while investigators worked at the scene.

The Lake Charles Police Department did not release any statements beyond confirming that the death appears to be a suicide.

Suicide And Crisis Resources

Anyone who is struggling or knows someone who may be in crisis can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and connects callers with trained counselors who can provide support, resources, and guidance.

If there is an immediate danger to someone’s life, authorities advise calling 911.