The NOPD has cleared its investigation into a homicide that occurred on August 14, 2026, in the 4200 block of Freret Street.

At about 3:56 a.m. on August 14, NOPD Second District officers responded to a call of an attempted suicide at the location. Upon arrival, officers located an unresponsive adult female inside of a residence. Emergency medical personnel arrived to the scene and subsequently pronounced the victim deceased. At that time, the incident was deemed an unclassified death.

Upon further investigation, the victim was found to have sustained at least one gunshot wound. The incident was then reclassified as a homicide, with NOPD Homicide Section detectives assuming control of the investigation.

As the investigation progressed that day, detectives developed Desmond Cooper (black male, DOB: 08-09-1982 as a suspect in the homicide, which is believed to be domestic in nature.

Detectives were later advised that a subject matching Cooper’s description had been located at the intersection of North Norman C. Francis Parkway and Iberville Street and was possibly armed. As officers arrived on scene, they heard a single gunshot and, soon after, found Cooper suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was transported to a local medical center and was later declared deceased.

With this development, the incident is deemed to be cleared by exception.

The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office will identify the homicide victim and determine preliminary cause of death upon completion of autopsy and notification of family.

No further information is currently available.

Anyone with additional information that can assist is urged to contact NOPD Homicide Section detectives at 504-658-5300.

Have a question or correction? Please email NOPD’s Public Affairs Division at nopdpio@nola.gov.