NEW ORLEANS, LA — Tragedy struck the Marigny neighborhood this weekend as New Orleans police arrested 24-year-old Benjamin J. Camp, who allegedly confessed to shooting and killing his girlfriend, then burying her body in the backyard of a home on Marigny Street.
According to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), officers responded to a call around 5:09 p.m. on Saturday in the 2000 block of Marigny Street. Upon arrival, Camp reportedly admitted to officers that he had killed his girlfriend and buried her behind the residence.
Officers secured the scene and, upon investigation, uncovered human remains. EMS personnel confirmed the victim was deceased. The woman has since been identified by family members as 24-year-old Essence Peters, a young woman described by those who knew her as bright, caring, and full of life.
Following the grim discovery, detectives executed a search warrant and confirmed the remains found in the yard belonged to a woman. Camp was taken in for questioning and subsequently charged with second-degree murder. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.
The horrifying nature of the crime has left neighbors stunned and heartbroken.
“I feel so terribly for the woman and her family, and it seems just like a horror movie,” said Augustin Correro, a nearby resident. “This was a really young person, and it’s terrible to know how her whole life was ahead of her. Domestic violence is more common than a lot of people recognize.”
Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the killing, but the case is being investigated as a domestic violence-related homicide. Essence’s death adds to a growing list of domestic violence tragedies that continue to devastate families and communities across the country.
Loved ones of Essence Peters are now grappling with a sudden, senseless loss. Vigils and community support efforts are expected in the coming days to honor her memory and raise awareness about intimate partner violence.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence is urged to seek help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting “START” to 88788.
