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Founder of Louisiana African American history museum found dead in trunk

The death of Sadie Roberts-Joseph has been ruled a homicide, officials said Monday.
Credit: WAFB
Sadie Roberts-Joseph

BATON ROUGE, La. — A Louisiana activist and icon was found dead in the trunk of her car Friday afternoon.

Sadie Roberts-Joseph, 75, died from traumatic asphyxia, including suffocation, according to an autopsy report released Monday.

Her body was found in the trunk of her car roughly three and a half miles away from her home, according to Baton Rouge police.

Joseph was the founder of the non-profit, Odell S. Williams Now & Then Museum of African American History. 

“It is with great sadness and respect we investigate any unexpected or traumatic death. When our investigation involves an innocent victim, such as Ms. Sadie Joseph, it is particularly tragic. Our condolences are extended to Ms. Joseph’s family and friends,” said Dr. Beau Clark, East Baton Rouge coroner.

The Baton Rouge Police Department released the following statement on its Facebook page:

“Ms. Sadie was a tireless advocate of peace in the community. We had opportunities to work with her on so many levels. From assisting with her bicycle giveaway at the African American Museum to working with the organization she started called CADAV (Community Against Drugs and Violence). Ms. Sadie is a treasure to our community. She will be missed by BRPD and her loss will be felt in the community she served.”

No suspects have been named in connection with Roberts-Joseph's death.

Mayor Sharon Weston Broome said the city is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment.

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