Ian Kersting, a 34-year-old assistant district attorney from the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, has reportedly taken his own life.
He was found in the office with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene. The DA’s office expressed deep condolences, describing Kersting as a beloved member of their team.
The office will be closed on Monday to allow staff to grieve and receive support from counselors.
Kersting specialized in sexual assault cases and was recently recognized for his role in securing a conviction in a child sex abuse case.
“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.”
“It’s important that we support each other right now, and we ask the media respect the privacy of the individuals impacted,” the statement said.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the judges of Criminal District Court and Juvenile Court, as well as the Orleans Public Defenders, for their extraordinary compassion and humanity during this challenging time, as there will be members of our staff who will require time to cope and heal,” the statement added.
