The Jeanerette community on Wednesday evening mourned the loss of Juandre Gilliam (22), a police officer, who died in the line of duty during a high speed chase on Tuesday night.

“Full of sorrow right now. He was truly my brother. Three months of hard training. Finding out three weeks after, after the academy he’s gone already is really shocking.” said Deputy Kevin Serialle.

Officer Juandre Gilliam served with the Jeanerette Police Department for the last two years, and he just graduated from the police academy in March.

“We started off close, a class of 17, and I really didn’t think it would end like this when I got the call this morning.” said Deputy Serialle.

Deputy Kevin Serialle of the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office graduated from the 43rd class of St. Martin Training Academy with Officer Gilliam. He said during their time in the academy they became very close friends. Serialle wore their class shirt today in memory of his fallen brother. “Those three months was just truly amazing with him, he was such a great person, and I truly miss him.”

According to police investigation, Officer Gillium was involved in a high speed pursuit on Tuesday night. Troopers determined at some point the two vehicles struck one another. Officer Gilliam, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time lost control of his vehicle and was ejected from his police car. Serialle says Officer Gilliam could be described as athletic and energetic. He said even after their hardest physical training in the academy, Gilliam could always keep going. “It was really surprising when I heard he got in a high speed pursuit and the vehicle crashed. That’s how he passed away. It really hurt me because I know he’s a strong willed man.”

Two arrests have been made in the case.

A memorial walk is scheduled to remember Officer Gilliam for later this week.