Crime
New Orleans Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting Found Dead in Apparent Suicide
On January 4, 2025, Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting, 34, was discovered dead at the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office in what authorities believe to be an apparent suicide. Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and confirmed that Kersting had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Kersting was a key member of the District Attorney’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) unit. He worked closely with the New Orleans Police Department to investigate and prosecute sexual assault cases using advanced DNA evidence and other forensic techniques. His efforts were instrumental in addressing these complex and sensitive cases, making a significant impact on the lives of survivors and the pursuit of justice.
The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office expressed profound grief over Kersting’s untimely death.
“Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting was a beloved member of our office, dedicated to justice and supporting victims of sexual assault. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the office stated.
They also requested privacy for Kersting’s family and colleagues as they cope with the tragic loss.
Kersting’s death has left a void in the legal community, where he was respected for his professionalism and compassion. Many colleagues and community members have expressed their condolences and shared stories of his commitment to justice.
Counseling services have been made available to staff at the District Attorney’s Office, and mental health advocates are urging anyone struggling with similar challenges to seek help.
For individuals in crisis, help is available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 988, offering confidential support 24/7.
Crime
Victims Identified in Deadly Robeson County Mass Shooting
Two Dead, 13 Injured in Mass Shooting at Large Party in Robeson County, North Carolina
ROBESON COUNTY, N.C. — A late-night party in eastern North Carolina turned deadly early Saturday morning when gunfire erupted, leaving two people dead and 13 others injured, according to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins confirmed that deputies were called to the scene on Dixon Drive, just outside the town of Maxton, at approximately 3:00 a.m. following reports of a shooting at a large outdoor gathering attended by more than 150 people.
When deputies arrived, chaos had already unfolded — witnesses said over 150 individuals fled the area before law enforcement could secure the scene.
Authorities identified the deceased victims as Jessie Locklear and his son Nehemiah Locklear.
Several other victims sustained critical injuries and were transported to area hospitals for emergency treatment.
Sheriff Wilkins stated that, based on preliminary findings, the shooting appears to have been an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the wider community.
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from multiple agencies, continues to investigate the circumstances that led to the violence.
Detectives are working to determine the motive and identify all parties involved.
Authorities are urging anyone with information—or anyone who attended the gathering and witnessed the incident—to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Investigators at 910-671-3100.
“We know there were many people present when this occurred,” Sheriff Wilkins said. “If you saw something or know something, we need you to come forward to help bring justice to the victims and their families.”