NEW ORLEANS — Authorities say a man was arrested after he allegedly shot and killed his ex-girlfriend during a confrontation with her new boyfriend at a Bourbon Street diner just after midnight Thursday.
The New Orleans Police Department says that 33-year-old Alexander Kirby faces second-degree murder and aggravated assault charges for the shooting death of Shay De St. Germain.
Investigators believe Kirby went to the Clover Grill on Bourbon Street shortly after midnight to confront De St. Germain's new boyfriend who was working there. The New Orleans Advocate reports that Kirby allegedly pulled a gun on the boyfriend in a rear courtyard, sparking an argument.
At some point De St. Germain was shot in the face. Paramedics rushed her to the hospital where she later died.
Louisiana State Police and the French Quarter Task Force detained Kirby following the shooting. He is currently being held on a $600,000 bond, which was set a day behind original schedule due to the suspect being on suicide watch.
De St. Germain and her boyfriend both worked at the Clover Grill. A sign was posted outside the restaurant in her memory and the restaurant was closed Thursday.
"We're devastated," said Clover Grill Attorney Darlene Jacobs. "This was a domestic dispute that went bad. We will do everything possible to make sure our employee receives justice in the court."
One person, who did not want to be named, left flowers at the restaurant and said De St. Germain had an infectious smile that could light up a room.
"If you've been here anytime, then you certainly know her," the person said. "Her smile, the way that she talks. But also, it was the best smile. The best attitude. Even if it was a long day, you could always count on her to be receptive of a laugh and always give you a laugh or two as well."
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The New Orleans Advocate reports a manager from the restaurant described De St. Germain as a "team member" who was killed in a "senseless and violent act."
“She was full of life, headstrong, and truly cared for everyone she surrounded herself by,” the statement added.
Jacobs said the restaurant would remain closed "as long as necessary to put our employee and friend to rest."
The manager asked Facebook users to keep De. St. Germain's family and co-workers in their prayers.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call NOPD eighth district detective Aaron Harrelson or homicide detective Brett Mathes at 504-658-5300. Residents can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111.