Tragedy struck the New Orleans District Attorney's Office as Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting, 34, was found deceased in his office on Saturday night. The New Orleans Police Department confirmed to WVUE-DT that Kersting's death was the result of apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Police discovered his body around 9 p.m., and New Orleans EMS pronounced him dead at the scene.

Kersting, admitted to the Louisiana bar in October 2020, specialized in sexual harassment cases within the District Attorney's Office. He played a key role in the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), collaborating with the New Orleans Police Department to investigate and prosecute sex crimes using DNA evidence.

The District Attorney's Office released a statement expressing their profound grief, describing Kersting as a "beloved member" and extending condolences to his family. The office emphasized the importance of mutual support during this difficult time and requested privacy for those affected.

This incident follows closely on the heels of a devastating terrorist attack in New Orleans on New Year's Day, which claimed the lives of 14 people and injured many more. In that attack, a man identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a rented truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street. Authorities believe the attack was inspired by ISIS, citing a recovered ISIS flag and online videos in which Jabbar pledged allegiance to the group.

Image: Ian Kersting (New Orleans District Attorney's Office)

Image: New Orleans Police Department vehicle (NOPD)

Image: Memorial for victims of the New Orleans New Year's Day attack (Audrey Conklin/Fox News Digital)

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.