Ian Kersting, an Assistant District Attorney (DA) for Orleans Parish in New Orleans, Louisiana, was discovered dead in his office on the evening of January 4, 2024. According to the city’s police department, the 34-year-old, who handled sexual assault cases, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Kersting’s body was found at the Orleans Parish DA’s office located at 619 South White Street, not far from the bustling Bourbon Street, at approximately 9 p.m. Emergency medical services confirmed his death at the scene.
The Orleans Parish DA’s Office released a statement expressing their grief over the tragic event. “Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting was a beloved member of our office. Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to his family during this difficult time,” the office said.
Kersting played a significant role in the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) unit of the office. He collaborated with detectives from the New Orleans Police Department to investigate sex crimes and prosecute offenders using DNA evidence analysis. The SAKI program, aimed at addressing untested sexual assault kits, has brought justice to numerous victims in the New Orleans area.
During his service, Kersting was known for his work on complex sexual assault cases. In March 2024, his efforts were crucial in obtaining a conviction in a case involving attempted first-degree rape and indecent behavior with a minor under 13. The Orleans Parish DA’s office praised the joint efforts of Kersting and his team in securing a significant verdict.
Kersting’s work on the high-profile murder case against Anthony Jones in November 2022 stands as one of his most noteworthy accomplishments. Jones was tried for the 2016 murder of Renata Vaughn in the 7th Ward of New Orleans. The evidence Kersting presented led to convictions for second-degree murder and obstruction of justice.
DA Jason Williams lauded Kersting’s contributions to the case, stating, “I am grateful for the hard work of two of my youngest prosecutors, Constance Tullier and Ian Kersting, as well as Victim/Witness Advocate Vickie Landry and former NOPD Detective Bruce Brueggeman on this difficult case.”
After gaining admission to the Louisiana State Bar in October 2020, Kersting joined the DA’s office. Over his three-year tenure, his dedication to victims of sexual assault and his commitment to justice, particularly in sensitive cases, earned him respect from his colleagues.
Following Kersting’s death, the DA’s office announced it would close on January 6 to allow staff access to grief and trauma counselors and to review available support services. The office thanked the local legal community for their compassion during this challenging period and reaffirmed its commitment to mental health resources for those dealing with difficult criminal cases. Operations resumed on January 7.
The building’s security protocols and after-hours access policies are under review as part of the ongoing investigation.