Murder Suspect Arrested

New Orleans Police identified a suspect in the murder of Patricia Fitzgerald, White female, age 45. Her body was discovered on August 19, 2024 under the wharves near Esplanade Avenue and the Mississippi River.

Identified was Courtney Cantrell, White male, DOB 09/07/1988 and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On September 16, 2024 Courtney Cantrell was taken into custody by authorities in Poplar, Montana, while on tribal lands. He is currently being held by the Fort Peck Tribal Police. A hearing is scheduled to accomplish the extradition process, which will involve transferring custody of Courtney Cantrell from the Tribal Police to State of Montana authorities, and then to New Orleans Police.

Anyone with information about the crime or the suspect is asked to call Homicide Section detectives at 504-658-5300.