DENHAM SPRINGS, Bogalusa: Police have identified 53-year-old Thomas Sapp of Bogalusa as the man who tragically lost his life after being struck by a car outside a local restaurant in Denham Springs. The incident occurred near the Yellow Brick House restaurant, just moments after Sapp had been inside receiving a hot meal.
Sapp, who was homeless, had entered the restaurant seeking assistance. Chad Matrana and his wife, Kimberly James, owners of the Yellow Brick House, said it was the first time they had seen him. True to their practice of helping those in need, they provided him with a plate of food and a warm interaction.
“Our manager sat with him and spoke with him for a little while. We were making his plate, and all we knew at this point was that his name was Thomas,” Matrana shared during an interview.
The heartbreaking timing of the incident has left the restaurant owners and staff deeply affected. Sapp had only just received their act of kindness before the tragic accident outside.
Moved by the circumstances, Matrana and James have announced that they will cover Sapp’s funeral expenses. Their gesture underscores their commitment to supporting the community and honoring the man they had briefly come to know in his final moments.
The loss of Sapp serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness and the critical need for compassion and support. While his life ended abruptly, the kindness he received at the Yellow Brick House represents the humanity that can make a difference, even in fleeting moments. The restaurant owners’ decision to take on his funeral costs further exemplifies their dedication to standing by those in need, even in the wake of tragedy.
As the community mourns, Sapp’s story highlights the importance of outreach, kindness, and recognition of the dignity of all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.