The New Orleans Police Department announced on March 17 that arrests have been made in three separate homicide investigations, with the most recent occurring early that morning.
These developments are significant as they address ongoing violent crime cases and demonstrate law enforcement efforts to resolve homicides in the city.
According to the department, Michael McBride was arrested by the Violent Offender Warrant Squad and U.S. Marshals’ Fugitive Task Force at a residence on Dixon Street. McBride is charged with second degree murder related to a shooting on November 12, 2025, which resulted in the death of 17-year-old Eric C. Simmons III.
On March 16, officers arrested Amondo McDonald for his alleged involvement in a homicide that took place on Chef Menteur Highway on March 11. McDonald faces a second degree murder charge in connection with the death of Bobby Lavigne and was booked into the Orleans Justice Center.
A third arrest occurred on February 26 when George Cowart was taken into custody by NOPD’s VOWS Unit and U.S. Marshals. Cowart is charged with second degree murder following the fatal shooting of Rudi Gastinell on Hamilton Street earlier that month.
The police urge anyone with additional information about these cases to contact the Homicide Unit or Crimestoppers anonymously. The department also reminds the public that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
