Lightning Strikes Historic Lecompte School, Causing Closure

The Old Lecompte High School and Museum, a vital community hub that also includes a senior center and a branch of the Rapides Parish Library, has been temporarily closed. This closure is a direct result of storm-related damage sustained by the building. Initial assessments suggest that a lightning strike during recent storms may have hit the smokestack on the north side of the structure.

Discovery of the damage occurred when a crew was on the roof addressing leaks and found fallen bricks. The extent of the damage to the smokestack requires further assessment by the town to determine if significant portions need removal or if repairs can be undertaken. Consequently, no reopening date has been set for the museum or the Johnson branch of the library.

In the interim, patrons of the Johnson branch are encouraged to visit other library locations, including the McDonald, Westside Regional, and Martin Luther King Jr. branches. An event featuring Harvey Rabbit & Friends, originally scheduled at the museum, has been relocated to the Lecompte Town Hall.