Bourbon Street shooter found guilty of killing Cats Meow bartender, injuring tourist

July 18, 2024

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Daphne Jackson, the 25-year-old shooter responsible for the fatal shooting of a Bourbon Street bartender and the injury of a tourist, has been found guilty by a jury of manslaughter and aggravated assault.

The incident occurred on March 20, 2022, when Jackson fired a gun on Bourbon Street following an altercation with another group.

One bullet struck a 21-year-old tourist, while another fatally wounded 46-year-old bartender Spencer Hudson after it pierced through the wall of the Cat’s Meow bar.

Hudson died from his injuries inside the bar.

Further police investigation led to Jackson’s arrest, during which Jackson faced charges of murder, attempted murder, and obstruction of justice. However, the weapon Jackson used that fateful night was never located.

Today’s court verdict revealed a jury decision to convict Jackson on the lesser charges of manslaughter and aggravated assault while acquitting her of the obstruction of justice charge.

The decision did not sit well with Spencer Hudson’s family and friends, who packed the courtroom.

“I’m not happy about the verdict. I think she should have been convicted on all three counts. But I was told in there that she could still get a severe penalty or punishment out of it, so hopefully, that will be the case. It’s...I was hoping for more. But we have to live with what we got,” said Hudson’s father speaking outside the courthouse with dissatisfaction.

Jackson now faces a potential 40-year prison term for the conviction. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 2, where a judge will determine the exact length of incarceration.

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