Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old boy during a late-night confrontation in the Algiers area earlier this year, according to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD).
The victim, Noe Padilla, 17, was shot during an incident near Socrates Street and Brooklyn Avenue on March 23. He later died at a local hospital after suffering gunshot wounds.
Shooting Followed Early Morning Argument
According to investigators, the shooting happened at approximately 2 a.m. when a group of men encountered another group of individuals in the area.
Police said an argument broke out between the two groups. As the first group attempted to leave by getting into their vehicle, the suspects allegedly opened fire.
Authorities said two people were struck by the gunfire. Both victims were transported to a hospital, where Noe Padilla later died from his injuries. The condition of the second victim has not been released.
Months-Long Investigation Led to Arrests
NOPD said detectives conducted an extensive investigation that involved multiple parishes, additional criminal cases, and assistance from several law enforcement agencies.
The investigation eventually resulted in arrest warrants for:
- Angel Balderon, 20
- Bryan Armando Estrada-Hernandez, 19
- Jeffrey Mulul, 17
Police said all three suspects have been located and booked into custody.
Each faces the following charges:
- One count of second-degree murder
- Four counts of attempted second-degree murder
Fourth Suspect Arrested After Standoff
Authorities announced that the fourth suspect, Andrea Orozco, 17, was arrested on Tuesday, July 15, following a brief standoff with members of the U.S. Marshals Service and the NOPD Violent Offenders Warrant Squad.
Police said Orozco was located at a residence in the 3100 block of Bienville Street before being taken into custody.
She was booked into the Orleans Parish Justice Center on the following charges:
- One count of principal to second-degree murder
- Four counts of principal to attempted second-degree murder
Investigation Remains Active
The New Orleans Police Department said the investigation into the March 23 shooting remains ongoing. Detectives have not released additional information regarding what led to the initial argument or whether more arrests could be made.
Authorities are continuing to gather evidence as the case moves through the court system.
As with all criminal cases, the charges against the four suspects are allegations, and each is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
