Norco man killed after fighting back against robber

Police searching for 3 men in connection with murder

A 21-year-old Norco man was killed Saturday night after he fought back against a gun-wielding robber who tried to enter his apartment, according to the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Jay Bertucci was at home with two friends on St. Charles Street when he heard a knock on the door shortly after 11 p.m. When Bertucci answered, a black male pointed a handgun at him and Bertucci attempted to grab the gun. That’s when it fired and a bullet struck Bertucci in the chest, authorities say.

The gunman, who was with two other black males, then fled the scene on foot.

When deputies arrived, they found Bertucci lying on the floor with a single gunshot wound to his chest. Emergency medical technicians pronounced him dead at the scene.

St. Charles Parish Sheriff Greg Champagne said the incident appears to be drug related.

According to police, two of the robbers wore black hoodies while one of them had a bandana covering his face.

Anyone with information regarding this murder is asked to contact Det. Joseph Dewhirst at (985) 783-1135 or (985) 783-6807. Additionally, information can be reported to Crimestoppers at 1 (877)– 903-STOP.

Anyone who gives information to Crimestoppers does not have to give their name or testify in court and could receive up to $2,500.