A Life Cut Short in the Goose: The Unsolved Murder of Wilbert Thomas in New Orleans

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A Familiar Face in a Familiar Place

Wilbert Thomas, 37, was a lifelong resident of the New Orleans neighborhood known as the Goose. He grew up just two streets away from where he was ultimately gunned down. Known for being a "good dude," Thomas worked at a nearby strip club, cleaning up after hours. Despite struggling with drug issues and not owning a phone, he was a familiar and friendly face in the community.

A Tragic Coincidence

On January 9, 2017, Thomas was shot multiple times and left face down in the street, just steps away from where Aaron Monroe had been killed two days prior. The street corner was crowded with people attending Monroe's candlelight vigil when the shots rang out. Thomas had been actively seeking help for Monroe's case, running door to door looking for someone to call the police. His death during Monroe's vigil added a layer of tragedy to an already grieving community.

A Community Under Siege

The Goose neighborhood, located off Interstate 10, is a predominantly African-American community that has faced its share of challenges. In the early months of 2017, the area experienced an unprecedented wave of violence, with six homicides occurring within two city blocks. This surge in violence was particularly shocking given that the previous four years combined had seen only two homicides in the area.

Faith Amidst Violence

Despite the violence, the residents of the Goose have leaned heavily on their faith to cope. Churches outnumber restaurants 11-to-1 in the neighborhood, serving as pillars of strength and community. Reverend Robert Brown of Ray Avenue Baptist Church, who conducted Monroe's vigil, emphasized the need for spiritual support, stating, "Because now, we need God more."

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