The NOPD has obtained an arrest warrant for Anfernee Devante Steele in the investigation of a homicide on October 3, 2020 in the near the Sheraton Hotel Canal Street.
According to the Times-Picayune/New Orleans Advocate, Steele faces one count of second degree murder and cruelty to a juvenile connected to the killing of 4-year-old Jo'nyri Hawkins.
Hawkins body was found in the early morning hours on Canal Street near the hotel.
NOPD did not provide details about the killing to than she died by blunt force trauma.
It is not known how Steele may have known the girl.
A funeral for the little girl is scheduled for Friday in her hometown of Houma.
The little girl is survived by her parents, two siblings and grand parents.
Through investigation, Steele has been developed and positively identified as the perpetrator in this incident.
NOPD Homicide Unit detectives are seeking Steele on a warrant for one count of second-degree murder and one count of second-degree cruelty to juveniles.
Anyone with additional information on this incident or on Steele’s whereabouts is asked to contact NOPD Homicide or Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111.
