The founder of an African American history museum in Baton Rouge was found dead in the trunk of a car on Friday night, according to Police.
The body of 75-year-old Sadie Roberts-Joseph was discovered about three miles from her home, but CNN reports that it wasn’t clear what led police to the vehicle.
Roberts-Joseph was a well-known activist and leader in Baton Rouge. Outside of founding the Odell S. Williams Now and Then African American Museum in 2001, Roberts-Joseph hosted a yearly Juneteenth festival in the city. She also started an organization to combat violence and drugs in her community and dedicated her life to creating a safer environment for youth.
“Ms. Sadie was a tireless advocate of peace in the community. We had opportunities to work with her on so many levels, the police department said in an official statement. “From assisting with her bicycle give away at the African American Museum to working with the organization she started called CADAV. (Community Against Drugs and Violence) Ms. Sadie is a treasure to our community, she will be missed by BRPD and her loss will be felt in the community she served.”
The Baton Rouge Branch of the NAACP mourned the loss of Roberts-Joseph, who they called a “cultural legend” on Facebook.
“We lost a Cultural Legend Yesterday! #RIP Sadie Roberts Joseph,” the group wrote. “From reviving Juneteenth, to the Culture preserved at Her Museum, she was a trendsetter and icon in this City.”
Police say that they are working “diligently” to find whoever is responsible. They are asking for anyone with information on her death to come forward.
The cause of death, as of now, is unknown.
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