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
1 killed, 5 injured after mass shooting at KDC/One warehouse in New Albany, suspect in custody
UPDATE: Suspect in New Albany, Ohio shooting taken into custody.
NEW ALBANY, OH — A deadly shooting at a warehouse in New Albany, located approximately 15 miles northeast of Columbus, left one person dead and five others hospitalized late Tuesday night.
The shooting occurred shortly before 11 p.m. at KDC/One, a manufacturing facility specializing in beauty and personal care products.
According to the New Albany Police Department (NAPD), the suspect has been identified as Bruce Reginald Foster III, an employee at the facility.
Authorities are actively searching for Foster, who is believed to have fled the area following the incident.
Police confirmed that Foster had been present at the warehouse for several hours prior to the shooting.
Investigators believe the attack was targeted, although there were no reports of an argument or altercation leading up to the violence.
One individual was pronounced dead at the scene, while five others were transported to nearby hospitals.
The conditions of the injured victims have not been publicly disclosed, and authorities have not released information regarding their identities or genders.
During a press conference on Wednesday morning, New Albany Police Chief Greg Jones described the situation as a “fluid investigation,” emphasizing the tragic nature of the event. “This is quite a tragedy, and the investigation has really just begun,” Jones stated.
A firearm was recovered inside the building; however, police have not confirmed whether the suspect remains armed.
Hundreds of employees were evacuated from the facility as law enforcement secured the scene.
The U.S. Marshals and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are assisting local police in searching multiple locations for Foster.
Authorities believe he has left the immediate area but continue to pursue leads on his whereabouts.
The facility remains closed and could be shut down for up to 12 hours as the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) assists with crime scene processing.
Anyone with information that could assist in locating the suspect or furthering the investigation is urged to contact the New Albany Police Department at 614-855-1234.
Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as the investigation progresses.