Anthony Michael Barre, a 22-year-old African American male known to many as 'Messy Mya,' was a rising internet personality and bounce rapper from New Orleans. His life was cut short on the evening of Sunday, November 14, 2010. Earlier that day, Barre had been celebrating at a baby shower for his unborn son. Hours later, he was attending a block party in the 7th Ward at the intersection of St. Anthony and North Rocheblave streets when gunfire erupted.
Barre was struck multiple times and was found lying face down in the street.
The news of his violent death quickly spread, partly due to graphic cell phone images that circulated online moments after the shooting. An outpouring of grief from his fans and the local community followed. Barre, known for his provocative and comedic online videos, had become a notable figure in New Orleans. His sudden and public death left many in shock. In the immediate aftermath, police reported that they had no suspects or a motive for the killing.
The investigation into Barre's murder led to an arrest a week after the incident. Jason Hamilton was taken into custody and subsequently confessed to the crime. He would spend the next three years imprisoned for the murder of Anthony Michael Barre. However, the case took a significant turn when new evidence emerged that exonerated Hamilton, proving he was not at the scene of the crime at the time of the shooting. Following this development, Jason Hamilton was released from prison. To date, the murder of Anthony Michael Barre remains officially unsolved, and no other suspects have been publicly named or charged in connection with his death.
