The Welsh Police Department is searching for a local man who threatened his mother with a gun Thursday morning.

Police Chief Marcus Crochet said police were called to a residence in the 200 block of West South Street after Ronnie Sonnier, 37, allegedly threatened his mother with a gun if she tried to take his daughter away. Sonnier does not have custody of the daughter who is in care of his mother, Crochet said.

When police arrived, Sonnier fled out the backdoor and led police on a chase, Crochet said.

Police lost sight of Sonnier and are currently searching a wooded area near the suspect’s home and an area just south near U.S. 90.

Sonnier is described as a white male. He was last seen wearing a gray tank top, blue jeans and boots.

Police warn residents that Sonnier should be considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts should contact the Welsh Police Department at 337-734-2626.