Eric Simmons III Obituary Death News: The passing of 17-year-old Eric Simmons III, a cherished student at Carver High School

 NEW ORLEANS, LA — The Hollygrove community is engulfed in sorrow and disbelief following the unfortunate shooting death of 17-year-old Eric Simmons III, a cherished student from Carver High School, who was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon as he walked home from school.

As reported by the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), the shooting took place around 4:30 p.m. in the 8200 block of Stroelitz Street, close to the Cypress Trace Apartments. Authorities state that Simmons had just disembarked from his school bus, still in his Carver High attire, when multiple assailants confronted him and fired shots. He passed away at the location before any assistance could reach him.

What started as a calm afternoon rapidly transformed into turmoil as police vehicles and crime scene technicians filled the area, placing yellow markers as evidence along the street. Observers, disturbed by the chaos unfolding so near their homes, struggled to comprehend the violence that had occurred.

“I stepped outside and saw numerous police vehicles and assumed something had occurred—without realizing this young boy had been murdered,” stated one resident who opted to remain unnamed.

Another local recalled hearing sounds reminiscent of fireworks. “She mentioned hearing about three quick gunshots but didn’t think much of it initially, as it resembled firecrackers,” conveyed another member of the community.

NOPD representative Reese Harper referred to the shooting as a devastating incident. “No child should have to lose their life in such a manner,” Harper remarked. “Children ought to feel safe going to and returning from school without fear. This incident has profoundly impacted the community.”

Residents of Hollygrove expressed similar feelings, voicing sorrow and anger regarding the persistent violence that continues to take the lives of the youth. “They’re taking away our future,” a man said softly. “It’s tragic. I truly empathize with the family.”

Investigators are diligently working to uncover the motive and apprehend those involved. The department is encouraging anyone with knowledge to reach out to NOPD or Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at (504) 822-1111.

The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office will verify the official cause of death after conducting an autopsy and informing the family.

Currently, friends, family, and the local community are grieving a promising young life—a student who was merely walking home, unaware that he was about to bring deep sorrow to an entire city. The name Eric Simmons III has now become part of an increasing list of young lives taken by meaningless violence—a stark reminder that each headline conceals a devastated family and a future lost.