All indications are that this is the body of Clarence Schlamp, 61, of Metairie who was reported missing in Jefferson Parish on Aug. 11. Schlamp’s campsite and vehicle along with personal belongings were subsequently located on Aug, 14 in the spillway undisturbed with a note that he was out hiking and would return.

Deputies of the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office have searched every day for this missing individual on foot, by all-terrain vehicles and by drone.

The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office Dive Team was mobilized on two occasions, searching waterways and ponds near the campsite.

Several leads were also followed up on over the past week relative to possible sightings of Schlamp outside of the spillway including one in New Orleans. These leads failed to produce positive results.

All evidence thus far points to the fact that this was an apparent suicide. The investigation is continuing pending an autopsy by the coroner and, the analysis of all available forensic evidence.

“I would like to thank all of our deputies who have spent so much time in difficult and brutally miserable conditions searching for Mr. Schlamp,” Champagne said. “Our thanks also go out to the Patriot Emergency Response Team who happened to be attending training here in South Louisiana and so graciously
offered their assistance. Finally, we offer our condolences to the family of Mr. Clarence Schlamp.”