NEW ORLEANS — Two weeks into Domestic Violence Awareness month, tragedy struck at the Georgetown Apartments in New Orleans East.
“I was holding her hand, trying to tap her, then when she turned around and we saw the bullet hole,” one resident said.
Police say a woman was shot and killed Wednesday night during a domestic dispute.
When police arrested the suspect, 35-year-old Eric Gentris, they found a gun and his four-year-old daughter in the car.
“I’m still in shock,” the resident said.
The family tells WWL Louisiana the victim is Katelyn Howard.
According to court records, Howard and Gentris were in a years-long relationship with a violent past.
Just months before Howard’s murder, Gentris was arrested for allegedly breaking into her home and pushing her against the wall.
“I was horrified,” Executive Director of New Orleans Family Justice Center Dr. Trashanda Grayes said. “I’m always horrified when things like this happen.”
It’s something the Director of New Orleans Family Justice Center Dr. Trashanda Grayes sees often, relationships that start out rosy then go south fast.
“If they’re controlling and constantly calling you and texting you, it may seem flattering but it can be a red flag,” Dr. Grayes said.
She said leaving can be harder than it seems.
“You can’t say why they go back. It could be for a number of reasons, but most of the time we see it's because of financials or because of the kids,” Dr. Grayes said.
There’s one thing she wants victims like Howard to know. No matter how hard it is to leave, there’s always a way out.
“Help is available. You can come to our Office at the New Orleans Family Justice Center.
The number to the Louisiana Domestic Abuse Hotline is 888-411-1333.
Victims and survivors anywhere in the state can call the number to find help in their area.
The hotline is free and confidential. It is available 24/7.
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