In the spring of 2020, the life of Autry Joseph Boskent Jr., a 41-year-old male native of New Orleans, was unexpectedly cut short. On the evening of Thursday, May 21, 2020, what began as a response to a medical call at a residence in the 1700 block of Feliciana Street unfolded into a homicide investigation. First responders arrived to find Boskent inside the home, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body.
He was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving his family and friends to grapple with the sudden and violent loss.
Autry, born on October 29, 1978, was a man deeply rooted in his community and devoted to his family. A 1997 graduate of Redeem Seton High School, he was remembered as a star football player. Following in his father's footsteps, he became a skilled welder, a trade he practiced at several companies, including Boasso Global and Avondale Shipyard. His love for his family was paramount, and he was a cherished son, brother, and father. A die-hard New Orleans Saints fan, he was known for his passion for sports, often watching multiple games simultaneously. His warm presence and dedication to his loved ones were central themes in the memories shared by those who knew him.
In the wake of his death, authorities sought the public's help in bringing his killer or killers to justice. Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case. Despite this effort and the ongoing investigation by the New Orleans Police Department, there have been no public announcements regarding any arrests or the identification of any suspects in connection with the murder of Autry Boskent Jr. The case remains an open investigation, a painful and unresolved chapter for his grieving family and the wider community.
