The NOPD has arrested James Nero Jr. (DOB: 12-19-1996) in connection with a homicide that occurred in the overnight hours today (August 2, 2018) at the intersection of Decatur and Bienville streets.

At about 3:10 a.m., Eighth District officers received a call of an aggravated battery by shooting at the location. Upon arrival at the scene at about 3:11 a.m., officers discovered a male victim lying on the sidewalk suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the neck. The victim was transported via EMS to an area hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. At that time, NOPD Homicide Unit detectives assumed command of the investigation.

A male suspect later identified as Nero was apprehended at the scene. As the investigation progressed, detectives determined that Nero was the perpetrator and obtained a warrant for his arrest.

Through investigation, detectives learned that Nero and the victim were former coworkers at a bar in the area and that the incident allegedly stemmed from a workplace dispute.

Nero was arrested and booked into the Orleans Parish Justice Center for second degree murder.

No further information is available at this time. The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office will determine official cause of death and release the victim's name, upon completion of autopsy and notification of family.

Homicide Detective Sarah Cherny is in charge of the ongoing investigation and can be reached at 504-658-5300 with any additional information regarding this incident.

Citizens with information that can help solve a crime are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.