NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Hollygrove community is reeling in grief and disbelief after the tragic death of 17-year-old Eric Simmons III, a Carver High School student who was fatally shot Wednesday afternoon while walking home from school. The incident has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken, once again highlighting the devastating toll of gun violence on the city’s youth.
According to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), officers responded to reports of gunfire around 4:30 p.m. in the 8200 block of Stroelitz Street, near the Cypress Trace Apartments. Investigators say Simmons had just stepped off his school bus and was still wearing his school uniform when several suspects approached and opened fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene before medical assistance could arrive.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as officers and crime scene investigators arrived, marking shell casings along the roadway. “I just came out and saw all the police cars and figured something happened — not knowing that this lil’ kid got murdered,” said one neighbor who asked not to be identified. Another resident said they initially thought the gunfire was fireworks, not realizing a young life had just been taken.
NOPD spokesperson Reese Harper called the shooting a heartbreaking tragedy. “No child deserves to lose their life this way,” Harper said. “Children should be able to go to school and return home safely. This has shaken the community deeply.” Police have not yet announced any arrests, and detectives are still searching for those responsible.
Residents in Hollygrove voiced frustration and exhaustion over the continued violence plaguing their streets. “They’re killing our future,” one man said quietly. “It’s sad. I feel sorry for the family.” Community members have begun leaving flowers and candles near the site of the shooting in memory of Simmons, described by friends as polite, funny, and full of potential.
The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office will determine the official cause of death following an autopsy, while investigators continue to gather evidence and urge anyone with information to contact NOPD or Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at (504) 822-1111. As the city mourns yet another young life lost, many hope Eric Simmons III’s memory will spark renewed efforts to bring peace and protection to New Orleans’ most vulnerable neighborhoods.
