Devon Lucie: WDSU Chief Meteorologist Faces Legal Trouble After Domestic Dispute Arrest in Louisiana
WDSU meteorologist Devon Lucie, known for his calm demeanor and expertise in severe weather forecasting, has recently found himself at the center of a serious legal storm. The longtime weather expert, who became chief meteorologist in 2025, was arrested in Marrero, Louisiana, following an alleged domestic dispute that drew significant public and media attention.
Who Is Devon Lucie?
Before joining WDSU in New Orleans, Devon Lucie built an impressive career in television meteorology. He studied at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and developed a deep interest in tornado and storm tracking. Over the years, Lucie worked in several U.S. cities — including Washington D.C., Las Vegas, Kansas City, and Denver — where he became known for covering powerful tornadoes and severe winter storms.
Lucie holds the prestigious Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) title from the American Meteorological Society, one of the highest credentials in the field. His analytical weather reports and relatable presentation style helped him connect with New Orleans viewers since joining WDSU in 2021.
Beyond his on-screen role, Lucie was also a familiar face at local community events. He often participated in charity activities and even hosted fun local contests, such as the annual Wiener Dog Races at the Fair Grounds Race Course — moments that highlighted his friendly, down-to-earth personality.
The Arrest and Charges
On October 5, 2025, deputies from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic disturbance call at Lucie’s residence in Marrero, located near New Orleans. According to official reports, the incident allegedly began after an argument between Lucie and his girlfriend during a festival in Gretna.
Reported Allegations
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The woman involved claimed she was left at the event without transportation.
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Upon returning home, she allegedly forced entry into the shared residence.
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A physical altercation reportedly followed, during which she said Lucie punched her multiple times and wrestled with her.
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Two children were said to be present inside the house during the confrontation.
Deputies reported observing visible injuries, including scratches and welts on the woman’s body. When officers attempted to identify Lucie, he allegedly refused to provide his name or date of birth and initially declined to put on clothing or shoes.
He was later taken to a local hospital for medical clearance before being booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center. Lucie now faces two charges:
| Charge | Category | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic abuse battery with child endangerment | Felony | Accusations of physical assault in the presence of minors |
| Resisting an officer (refusal to identify) | Misdemeanor | Failure to provide identification to deputies |
Following the arrest, WDSU issued a brief statement confirming that Devon Lucie has been placed on leave while the matter is under investigation.
Public and Media Reaction
The arrest has triggered widespread coverage across both local and national outlets, including FOX 8, Hindustan Times, and WDSU’s own affiliates. Many viewers expressed shock on social media, noting that Lucie was one of the station’s most trusted voices during severe weather coverage in the Gulf region.
Public sentiment has been mixed — while some have urged patience until official findings are released, others have called for accountability given the nature of the allegations. The situation has also reignited discussions about the pressures faced by public figures in the broadcasting industry and how personal crises can affect professional reputations.
What’s Next for the WDSU Meteorologist
As of early October, the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case to determine whether to pursue formal charges. WDSU has not made further comments beyond confirming Lucie’s administrative leave.
Lucie, who stepped into the role of chief meteorologist earlier this year after the retirement of longtime forecaster Margaret Orr, had recently become a key part of the station’s identity. His future with WDSU remains uncertain as the legal process unfolds.
For now, the case serves as a sobering reminder that even those accustomed to forecasting storms can sometimes find themselves caught in one of their own.
