On the last day of 2015, the life of 34-year-old Michael Cavanaugh was cut short in a New Orleans East barbershop. The male victim was discovered inside the establishment, located in the 9700 block of Lake Forest Boulevard, with a single gunshot wound to his chest. Emergency services rushed him to a nearby hospital, but his injuries proved fatal, and he was pronounced dead on December 31, 2015.
Cavanaugh, who had relocated to New Orleans from Austin, Texas, was born on June 23, 1981.
In the ensuing investigation, the New Orleans Police Department identified a person of interest. Authorities publicly named 31-year-old Tyson Williams, stating they believed he might have information relevant to the shooting. A photograph of Williams was released to the media in the hopes that the public could assist in locating him for questioning. However, law enforcement officials were clear that Williams was not considered a suspect in the homicide.
Despite the identification of a person of interest, the investigation into Michael Cavanaugh's death has not led to any arrests. Publicly available information does not indicate that Tyson Williams was ever found or interviewed by detectives. The case has grown cold over the years, with no suspects being formally named or charged in connection with the fatal shooting. The murder of Michael Cavanaugh remains an unresolved chapter in the city's history, leaving behind unanswered questions and a family still waiting for justice.
