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.
BAY CITY, Mich. — A violent road rage incident escalated into a multi-victim shooting Monday evening, as two vehicles reportedly exchanged gunfire while speeding into Bay City from neighboring Saginaw County.
The confrontation ended near a McDonald’s on M-15 and 22nd Street, where first responders located multiple victims and a heavily damaged vehicle.
At approximately 7:19 p.m., authorities began receiving numerous 911 calls reporting two vehicles involved in a high-speed rolling gun battle, traveling at speeds up to 115 mph.
Witnesses described a white SUV and a black sedan traveling from Saginaw County into Bay County, discharging firearms at each other—possibly automatic weapons, based on the volume and sound of the gunfire.
Bay City Police confirmed that officers heard automatic weapon fire along Broadway Avenue as the vehicles entered the city limits.
The vehicles continued east on 22nd Street, with the white SUV coming to a stop in the parking lot of the McDonald’s at M-15 and 22nd Street.
Police arrived on scene shortly after to find the white SUV with multiple windows blown out and three gunshot victims nearby.
Immediate medical aid was provided until emergency medical services arrived.
Meanwhile, the black sedan—described as having visible gunshot damage—fled the area southbound on M-15.
As of this report, the suspect vehicle remains at large, and authorities are actively searching the area.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying.
One bystander noted the vehicles passed by “at an ungodly rate of speed,” while another described seeing people ducking for cover as the shots rang out.
Police from multiple jurisdictions, including Bay City and Saginaw County, are collaborating on the investigation.
Detectives are working to piece together surveillance footage and gather witness statements.
The motive behind the incident appears to be tied to an extreme case of road rage, though further details are still emerging.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, has dashcam footage, or has any information about the black sedan is urged to contact local law enforcement or Bay County Crime Stoppers.
This remains an active investigation.
Updates will follow as more information becomes available.