Early Saturday in Gert Town, a burst of gunfire left 28-year-old Christopher Joseph dead, according to New Orleans police. Officers said Joseph was struck by bullets and taken to a hospital in a private vehicle, where he later died. Detectives have opened a homicide investigation but have not released any information about a suspect.
Where and When
The shooting happened at about 12:45 a.m. Saturday in the 1000 block of South Rendon Street, according to NOLA. Officials told the outlet that Joseph was struck twice in the abdomen and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Police did not immediately provide a suspect description or offer a possible motive.
Police Response
The Gert Town killing was one of three overnight shootings reported across New Orleans during the Easter weekend. Officers also responded to shootings on Dublin Street and in the Bywater, WDSU reported. All three victims were taken to hospitals, and detectives are canvassing the surrounding blocks for witnesses and surveillance footage. Police have not said whether any of the incidents are connected.
How to Help Investigators
Anyone with information is asked to contact the NOPD Homicide Section at (504) 658-5300 or Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at (504) 822-1111 or 1-877-903-STOP, according to a City of New Orleans bulletin. Tips and video can be submitted anonymously and may prove crucial to the case. Detectives are urging anyone with home or business cameras in the area, or anyone who saw or heard anything, to come forward.
Context
The Gert Town shooting adds to a string of late-night gunfire incidents that kept detectives busy across the city over the holiday weekend, according to WDSU. Police have been stepping up canvasses in neighborhoods where overnight shootings have clustered as they work to piece together motive and suspect information. Officials said they plan to release more details as the various investigations move forward.
Investigation Continues
NOPD’s Homicide Section is leading the probe and had not announced any arrests as of the latest local reports. The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office has been notified and will complete its review, NOLA reported. Anyone with information is again urged to contact detectives or Crimestoppers with tips.
