A devastating tragedy unfolded at the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office as Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting, known for his work on sexual assault cases, died by suicide within the office building on Saturday night.
Kersting, 34, was discovered with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound at 619 South White Street around 9 p.m., according to a report from Fox 8. Despite the rapid response of New Orleans EMS, Kersting was pronounced dead at the scene.
“The Orleans Parish DA’s Office family suffered a terrible tragedy Saturday night,” the office said in a statement. “Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting was a beloved member of our office, and we send our love and deepest condolences to his family.”
The statement urged for compassion and privacy, adding, “It’s important that we support each other right now, and we ask the media to respect the privacy of the individuals impacted.”
A career fighting for justice
Admitted to the Louisiana bar on October 30, 2020, Kersting had been a part of the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) within the DA’s office. This specialized unit works alongside the New Orleans Police Department’s sex crimes division, utilizing DNA evidence to investigate and prosecute sexual assault cases.
His death has sent shockwaves through the legal and local community, where Kersting was highly regarded for his commitment to justice and advocacy for survivors of sexual violence.
City grieves amid recent Bourbon Street tragedy
The tragedy comes on the heels of a catastrophic terrorist attack on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day, which has left New Orleans grappling with grief and fear.
Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street at approximately 3:15 a.m., killing 14 people. Authorities recovered weapons and a potential improvised explosive device inside the vehicle, which was adorned with an ISIS flag.
Governor Jeff Landry addressed the attack during a press conference on Sunday, offering condolences to the victims’ families and the community.
A community in mourning
The loss of Ian Kersting has added to the city’s collective sorrow, as New Orleans mourns both a dedicated public servant and the victims of senseless violence. The tragedies serve as stark reminders of the importance of mental health support and vigilance in combating extremism.
For those struggling with mental health challenges, resources are available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
