In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through Louisiana, authorities have announced the arrest of Jordan Barnes, the brother-in-law of Erica Hunt, who confessed to murdering the young woman nearly nine years after her disappearance. Hunt, just 20 years old at the time, vanished from Aalis, Louisiana, on July 4, 2016, leaving behind her two-year-old daughter, Briana. A festive family cookout turned into a nightmare when Erica failed to return home as promised, sparking an exhaustive search that lasted years.

For two agonizing years, Erica’s family held out hope, but their worst fears were confirmed when her remains were discovered in 2018, buried in a property previously searched by police. Despite the discovery, justice remained elusive until Barnes, who was among the last to see Erica alive, was questioned again this month. On November 21, 2024, in a startling confession, he admitted to her murder, igniting a renewed investigation into the case.

The confession has left Erica’s family grappling with a mix of relief and anguish, as they confront the harrowing truth that their loved one was taken by someone so close. With the investigation still ongoing, questions about the motive linger, but the family is resolute—Erica’s story will not be forgotten. Her loved ones fought tirelessly, refusing to let her case fade into obscurity.

As the community rallies for justice, the pain of Erica’s loss remains profound, but the truth offers a glimmer of hope. Now, as they prepare for the next steps in seeking justice, Erica’s family can finally begin to find some measure of closure. May Erica Hunt rest in peace, and may her story inspire others to seek truth and justice in the face of tragedy.