31-Year-Old Wesley G. Stevenson Identified as Victim Killed in Fatal I-10 Shooting on Mardi Gras Day

New Orleans, LA – March 6, 2025 — The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office has confirmed the identity of the victim in the tragic Mardi Gras Day shooting, which took place on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10. The victim has been identified as 31-year-old Wesley G. Stevenson, who was found dead inside his vehicle on the I-10 on-ramp from Crowder Boulevard. This shooting, which occurred at approximately 6 p.m. on Mardi Gras Day, has left the New Orleans community in shock and heightened the concerns around public safety as law enforcement officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing.

The incident unfolded on February 25, 2025, when the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) received reports of gunfire along I-10. Upon arrival, officers discovered Stevenson’s body inside his vehicle, which had come to a stop on the on-ramp leading from Crowder Boulevard. The scene was immediately secured, and homicide detectives were called in to investigate the fatal shooting.

Details of the Shooting Incident

The NOPD’s preliminary investigation has revealed that the deadly incident began with an altercation at a nearby store in the 5700 block of Crowder Boulevard, not far from where Stevenson’s vehicle was found. Authorities stated that two unidentified suspects entered the store where Stevenson was present at the time. It was unclear what exactly transpired inside the store, but a confrontation between the suspects and Stevenson seemed to escalate quickly.

After the altercation inside the store, Stevenson left the location and got into his vehicle. The suspects, meanwhile, entered their own vehicle and began to follow him. According to the police, the suspects attempted to cut off Stevenson’s vehicle while it was still on Crowder Boulevard, which led to a dangerous and high-speed chase as they continued to pursue him.

As Stevenson continued driving along Crowder Boulevard, the suspects opened fire on his vehicle. One of the gunshots struck Stevenson in the head, causing him to lose control of his car. His vehicle eventually came to a stop on the I-10 on-ramp, where police later found him lifeless behind the wheel.

The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office confirmed that the cause of death was a gunshot wound, and Stevenson’s tragic end on Mardi Gras Day sent shockwaves throughout the community, particularly in New Orleans East, where the shooting occurred.

Investigation and Law Enforcement Response

In the aftermath of the shooting, New Orleans police temporarily closed the I-10 on-ramp from Crowder Boulevard just before 7 p.m. to allow homicide detectives to gather evidence and conduct their investigation. Law enforcement officials quickly began working to piece together the events that led to Stevenson’s death, though as of now, no arrests have been made, and the suspects remain at large.

The NOPD has not yet publicly released any information regarding the identities of the two suspects, nor have they provided additional details about the nature of the altercation that led to the fatal shooting. Investigators are reportedly following up on several leads, but the lack of immediate suspect identification has led to concerns about public safety and the possibility of future violence in the area.

Authorities have urged anyone with information about the shooting or the identity of the suspects to come forward. They emphasized that tips and assistance from the public are crucial in solving the case and bringing those responsible for Stevenson’s death to justice.

Community Impact and Reactions

The fatal shooting has sparked a wave of grief and anger throughout the New Orleans East community, where Stevenson was well-known. Friends and family have expressed their heartbreak over the tragic loss, with many taking to social media to remember Stevenson and share messages of support for his loved ones. Local community leaders have also voiced their concerns about the growing violence in the area and the need for stronger measures to protect residents from similar incidents in the future.

In the wake of the shooting, some residents have called for increased police presence in New Orleans East, where violent crime has been a longstanding issue. Others have pushed for more community-based interventions, such as youth programs and initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence. Many are hoping that the investigation into Stevenson’s death will lead to justice, but there is also a sense of frustration over the lack of immediate answers.

A Call for Justice and the Road Ahead

As the NOPD continues to investigate the circumstances of the shooting, authorities are urging anyone with information to step forward. The lack of arrests and the absence of clear motives have left many wondering why such a senseless act of violence occurred on Mardi Gras Day, a day traditionally associated with celebration and joy in New Orleans.

For now, the community mourns the loss of Wesley G. Stevenson, and the NOPD remains committed to finding those responsible for his death. In the coming days and weeks, law enforcement officials will likely provide more information as the investigation unfolds. However, for those who knew Stevenson, the pain of his loss will linger long after the details of the case are made public.

Stevenson’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges surrounding gun violence in New Orleans and other urban areas. While Mardi Gras Day is typically a day of festivity, the violence that claimed Stevenson’s life shows that the city’s battle with crime is far from over. For now, the community remains on edge, hoping for answers and justice for a life lost too soon.

Conclusion

The fatal shooting of Wesley G. Stevenson on Mardi Gras Day in New Orleans East has left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the entire community. As the investigation continues, authorities remain hopeful that they will be able to identify and apprehend those responsible for this senseless act of violence. The loss of Stevenson serves as a painful reminder of the need for increased safety measures and a continued commitment to addressing the root causes of gun violence in the city.

With the investigation ongoing and the community calling for justice, the tragic death of Wesley G. Stevenson will undoubtedly remain a focal point of concern for local residents and law enforcement alike as they strive to prevent further violence and bring closure to this heartbreaking case.