Homicide — New Orleans, LA — reported 2026-07-15

SUMMARY

Victor Fernandez is charged with second-degree murder and other crimes in the death of Jessyca Gelpi.

KEY FACTS

  • Incident type: Homicide
  • Location: New Orleans, LA
  • Date reported: 2026-07-15
  • Suspect: male, age 36
  • Victim(s): 1 (42-year-old Jessyca Gelpi, a longtime employee at The Steak Knife in Lakeview)
  • Status: arrest/charge

REPORTED DETAILS

  • Victor Fernandez is charged with second-degree murder, motor vehicle theft and possession of a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance.
  • Fernandez was initially arrested on an outstanding warrant for aggravated burglary and domestic abuse battery.
  • The Orleans Parish Coroner’s report shows Jessyca Gelpi died from a gunshot wound.
  • Gelpi's vehicle was reported stolen after the homicide, and Fernandez was found driving it when he was taken into custody.
  • Fernandez was also found to be in possession of heroin.