Members of the New Orleans Police Department, working in coordination with the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office, have arrested 36-year-old Victor Fernandez in connection with the homicide of 42-year-old Jessyca Gelpi.
On Friday, July 10, 2026, shortly after 12:00 p.m., Fernandez was located near the intersection of Egania and North Derbigny Streets and taken into custody while driving the victim’s vehicle, which had been reported stolen following the homicide. He was initially arrested on an outstanding warrant and was also found to be in possession of illegal narcotics.
As the investigation continued, NOPD Homicide Detective Shondell Fields secured an arrest warrant, charging Fernandez with the homicide.
Fernandez will be booked into the Orleans Justice Center on the following charges:
- Second Degree Murder (LA RS 14:30.1)
- Motor Vehicle Theft (LA RS 14:67.26)
- Possession of a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance (Heroin) (LA RS 40:966)
Fernandez also had outstanding warrants for:
- Aggravated Burglary (LA RS 14:60)
- Domestic Abuse Battery (LA RS 14:35.3)
The New Orleans Police Department extends its appreciation to the NOPD Homicide Section, GRIP Unit, Violent Crimes Abatement Investigation Team, and the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office for their collaborative efforts in bringing this investigation