Sam Easterling

Case Information:

Sam Easterling was 30 years old when he vanished from New Orleans, Louisiana, on the early morning of August 29, 2024. He was last confirmed walking alone near the intersection of Maria’s Street and St. Bernard Avenue.

This sudden disappearance from the Bywater district has left his family and the local community in a state of profound distress. Despite his deep ties to the area, there has been no documented contact or activity from Samuel since that date.

Case Details:

Samuel was a well-known and approachable figure within his neighborhood, often recognized by his distinctive nickname, “Saint.” He maintained consistent communication with his loved ones, making his abrupt silence a significant cause for alarm.

While the investigation originated in the 7th Ward, credible leads suggest that he may have traveled to the Hattiesburg, Mississippi, area. His family remains steadfast in their belief that his disappearance was involuntary and that a witness may hold the key to his whereabouts.

Timeline of Events:

The last confirmed sighting of Samuel occurred at approximately 4:20 AM on August 29, 2024. He was observed walking solitary on Maria’s Street, positioned just off the 1300 block of St. Bernard Avenue.

When he failed to return home or engage with family members later that morning, a formal report was filed. The timeline remains stagnant at that pre-dawn hour, with no further movements tracked by investigators or bystanders.

Investigation:

The New Orleans Police Department Fifth District has spearheaded the search for Samuel, canvassing the residential and commercial corridors of the Bywater. Detectives have scrutinized local surveillance assets for any sign of his direction of travel or suspicious vehicle activity.

Despite these exhaustive efforts, no digital or physical evidence has surfaced to clarify his path after he departed Maria’s Street. The investigation continues to focus on the hours surrounding his disappearance to identify any potential interactions he may have had.

Community Response:

The search for “Saint” has galvanized a grassroots movement across the 7th Ward and into neighboring states. Supporters have utilized digital platforms to expand the search radius, specifically targeting the Interstate 59 corridor toward Mississippi.

Prayer vigils and extensive flyer distributions have become a frequent occurrence as the community refuses to let the case fade from public consciousness. This collective effort aims to reach anyone who may have been commuting in the area during those early morning hours.

Family Statements:

The Easterling family has issued heart-wrenching pleas for information, describing Samuel as a man with a kind heart and a deep connection to his roots. They believe that even the most seemingly insignificant detail could provide the breakthrough needed to resolve the case.

They continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings that align with his unique characteristics. Their primary objective is to secure answers and ensure that Samuel is returned home safely to his grieving family.

Physical Appearance:

Sam Easterling is a white male with a slim-to-medium build, standing 5’10” tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds. He is distinguished by shoulder-length light brown hair, a possible mustache, and prominent tattoos located on his forearms.

On the morning he vanished, he was wearing a black shirt, camouflage pants, and white slides paired with black socks. These specific items of clothing are critical for identification purposes as the search expands regionally.

Current Status:

As of March 2026, the disappearance of Sam Easterling remains an active and open investigation with the NOPD. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities and continue to follow up on leads generated by the public.

The file is frequently reviewed for new forensic or digital opportunities that may arise through modern technology. Samuel is also listed within the NamUs database to ensure national visibility among law enforcement agencies.

Contact Information:

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Sam Easterling, please contact the NOPD Fifth District at (504) 658-6050. You may also provide anonymous information to Crimestoppers GNO at (504) 822-1111. Your assistance could be the vital link needed to bring closure to this investigation.

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