By Monique Roth
L’Observateur

DESTREHAN — A Destrehan man wanted for murder alluded authorities for just one day before being captured in Independence.

Bruce Bourgeois Jr., 34, was arrested Thursday night by the Independence Police Department in connection with the Wednesday morning fatal stabbing of his girlfriend, Mia Waite.

Authorities said at approximately 7:13 p.m. Thursday night, Bourgeois was seen by a shopper at a Dollar General in Independence attempting to buy clothing. The resident contacted the local Sheriff’s Office, at which time Bourgeois was arrested without incident.

The arrest ended a nearly 36-hour search for Bourgeois.

At approximately 9:07 a.m. Wednesday, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office received a call of a homicide in the 300 block of Madewood Drive in Destrehan. Upon arrival, authorities found Mia Waite stabbed to death in the home she shared with Bourgeois.

Mia’s mother, Carmelina Waite, was also stabbed. The Sheriff’s Office immediately named Bourgeois as a suspect.

Carmelina Waite was taken to a local hospital, where authorities said Friday she remains in critical condition.

Bourgeois was taken to the Nelson Coleman Correctional Center and booked on first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and armed robbery charges. He is being held without bond.