South Louisiana serial killer & death row inmate Derrick Todd Lee died this morning while receiving medical care at a Baton Rouge Hospital. The 47-year-old received the death sentence for the brutal murder of 22-year-old Charlotte Murray Pace. The lead prosecutor, John Sinquefield, hopes the death of Lee provides closure and relief to victims and their families…:
CUT 9 (15) “is closed”
The Department of Corrections did not say why Lee was in the hospital but media reports indicated he was having complications with a pace maker.

A cold front is moving through Louisiana and nasty weather along with it. Tornado watches are in effect for most of the state. Forecasters say conditions are favorable for the development of storms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, hail, and frequent lightning through this evening.

Education leaders from throughout the state met with Governor John Bel Edwards to learn about what the state’s $750 million dollar midyear budget deficit could mean for Louisiana’s colleges and universities. State Commissioner of Higher Education, Joe Rallo, says Governor Edwards assured them that if there are cuts to higher ed, they would be part of sweeping budget cuts across the board…:
cut 15 (08) “all of us”
In the past eight years, higher ed has been cut more than $700 million.

Mackenzie Bourg of Lafayette is going to Hollywood after advancing on American Idol. The 23-year-old received three yes votes from judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. This is the farewell season of American Idol. Mackenzie also made a name for himself in 2012 for his stellar performances on The Voice.