VIDAILA — A Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy was killed in an automobile accident early Thursday morning in Vidalia, when his truck left Louisiana 15 and traveled across a levee into the Mississippi River, authorities said.

Genie Lee Morace died after his truck left the roadway at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday, said David Hedrick, chief deputy Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Hedrick said Morace likely was traveling to work at the prison when the accident occurred.

“We assume that the fog this morning had something to do with why his truck left the road,” Hedrick said.

A search for Morace began later Thursday morning with several deputies and civilians assisting with boats and a drone provided by Aaron Maroon of Maroon Aviation, Hedrick said.

The deputy’s truck was found near the levee at approximately 11 a.m., and Morace’s body was found several hours later, Hedrick said.

“He was a fine deputy, dedicated to his job and always working hard,” Hedrick said. “Please lift the family up in your prayers.”