Suspect Arrested in NOPD Homicide Investigation

Eric Christopher Gentris (black male, DOB: 01-02-1989) was arrested late yesterday evening (October 16, 2024) in the NOPD's investigation of a homicide that occurred earlier in the night in the 6200 block of Bridgehampton Drive.

At about 7:15 p.m., NOPD Seventh District detectives responded to a call of an aggravated battery by shooting at the location. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unresponsive adult female having sustained at least one gunshot wound. EMS subsequently declared the victim to be deceased on scene.

During the investigation, detectives quickly developed and positively identified Gentris as a suspect. Detectives also received information that Gentris was possibly armed and was believed to have his 4-year-old daughter with him.

Only a few short hours into the investigation, Gentris' vehicle was located out of parish. Following a multi-jurisdictional vehicle pursuit involving multiple assisting agencies, Gentris was taken into custody at about 11:30 p.m. in Scott, La. During the arrest, Gentris was found to have his daughter with him and was also found in possession of a firearm. Fortunately, the child was unharmed and safely rescued from the vehicle.

Gentry was arrested and booked into the custody of the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office as a fugitive. Upon extradition back to Orleans Parish, Gentris will be booked into the Orleans Parish Justice Center for one count of second-degree murder.

The Orleans Parish Coroner's Office will identify the homicide victim and official cause of death upon completion of autopsy and notification of family.

The NOPD thanks all assisting law enforcement agencies for their outstanding coordination and rapid response in bringing this incident to the best possible conclusion.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to contact NOPD Homicide Section Det. Tanisha Sykes-Smith at 504-658-5300.

Have a question or correction? Please email NOPD's Public Affairs Division at [email protected].