NEW ORLEANS — Jacob Carter and his husband were small business owners, visiting New Orleans from Tacoma, Washington.
In the early hours of Friday, Jan. 5, Carter’s life was cut short. The couple was walking near Bourbon and Kerlerec Street when Carter was shot. One week later, police have arrested a 16-year-old, who they believe was involved in his murder.
This comes after NOPD pulled a stolen blue Kia Optima out of Bayou St. John on Tuesday. Law enforcement officials say it was likely used as a getaway car.
Carter and his husband owned Howdy Bagel, a small bagel shop in Tacoma. Their customers held a vigil on Tuesday to honor his life.
“It’s just not fair,” one customer said. “He’ll live on through us, and we’re all better for knowing him and being in his presence.”
The murder has raised concerns from people living in the Marigny. One resident says the neighborhood isn’t well lit.
“We may get hundreds of people in a night, of people walking back and forth,” a Marigny local said. “So now it’s very, very dangerous. As we can see, not to be well lit.”
Locals are also worried about the lack of police presence.
“We need a bigger presence of the 8th District here,” Lisa Faatland with the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association said. “At the same time we realize the 8th District is short-staffed.”
NOPD says the investigation is still underway. They are exploring other leads.