Man found guilty in death of NOPD officer

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – Four years after the original French Quarter shooting and two years after the subsequent death of the New Orleans police officer, the perpetrator has been found guilty.

According to New Orleans Police Department Chief Anne Kirkpatrick, Donnell Hassell was found guilty on all charges related to his responsibility in the 2023 death of Trevor Abney.

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In October 2020, while sitting in his patrol car with his partner, Abney was shot in the face by a man sitting in the back of a pedicab.

Hassel was identified as the shooter and arrested the next day. At that time he was charged with two counts of attempted murder of a police officer.

However, two years later, Abney died as a result of a gunshot wound to the brain, and his death was ruled a homicide.

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Abney, who previously served in the National Guard, toured Iraq and volunteered as a firefighter before joining the NOPD, was buried at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery.

Kirkpatrick commented on the verdict: “My heart goes out to Trevor's family, whose courage and strength throughout this painful journey have been remarkable.” This verdict is a reminder of our unwavering commitment to honor and protect those who serve our community. Officer Abney’s legacy will forever be a part of the New Orleans Police Department.”

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