Crime
2 killed, 10 wounded in two shootings during crowded second line parade in the St. Roch area of New Orleans
A day meant for celebration turned grim in New Orleans on Sunday as two separate shootings along a parade route left two people dead and ten others injured.
The incidents unfolded amid a large crowd attending festivities organized by the Nine Times Social Aid & Pleasure Club in the city’s St. Roch neighborhood.
First Incident: St. Roch Avenue Shooting
The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) reported that the first shooting occurred shortly after 3:30 p.m. on St. Roch Avenue.
Responding officers found eight victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
All were transported to hospitals, though their conditions remain undisclosed.
A ninth victim later arrived at a hospital in a private vehicle.
Second Incident: Almonaster Avenue Bridge Shooting
Approximately 45 minutes later, a second shooting took place as revelers crossed the Almonaster Avenue Bridge, located about half a mile from the first scene.
- Fatalities and Injuries:
- One person died at the scene.
- Another succumbed to injuries at the hospital.
- A third individual, driven to a hospital by private vehicle, is reported to be in stable condition.
The bridge was closed in both directions during the investigation, further disrupting the day’s festivities.
Investigation and Uncertainty
No arrests have been made, and the NOPD has not yet released any suspect information. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that detectives are working to determine whether the two shootings are connected, noting that the attacks appeared to involve “different kinds of approaches.”
The St. Roch neighborhood, located just northeast of the French Quarter, is typically outside the main tourist areas.
The shootings occurred during a “second line” parade, a beloved New Orleans tradition where attendees follow a brass band in a lively procession.
Community Impact and Response
Oscar Brown, an organizer of the Nine Times Social Aid & Pleasure Club, expressed dismay over the violence disrupting what is usually a joyful annual event.
“This is a wonderful event, and we want to keep it that way,” Kirkpatrick affirmed, underscoring the community’s commitment to preserving the spirit of the celebration despite the tragedy.
Context of Recent Violence
This incident marks the second major shooting in the South within days. On November 10, a shooting at Tuskegee University in Alabama during homecoming weekend left one person dead and 16 others injured, including 12 by gunfire.
New Orleans authorities continue to investigate the shootings, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Crime
Family Seeks Justice After Breanna Howell Found Shot to Death in Clark Road Willows Apartments
Gary, Indiana – The family of Breanna Howell is demanding justice after the woman was found dead on the morning of March 19, 2025, at the Willows Apartments on Clark Road.
According to Myonnha Prince, Howell’s sister, Breanna was last seen when their brother dropped her off at the apartment of Jaequan Washington the night before.
The following morning, at approximately 8:00 a.m., the family received a devastating call informing them that Breanna had been found dead.
Prince told Channel2 NOW that after Howell’s death, Washington ceased all communication with the family, ignoring phone calls and text messages.
Additionally, he allegedly deleted all photos and posts related to Howell from his social media accounts.
While the exact circumstances of Howell’s death remain under investigation, her family believes she suffered physical abuse before being shot.
Prince stated that the last photo of Howell showed visible injuries, including a busted lip, swelling on her face, and an apparent head injury.
Howell was reportedly shot twice—once in the back and once in the chest.
“We don’t know exactly what happened that night, but we do know that my sister was beaten before she was shot and killed,” Prince said. “Now, we just want justice for Breanna.”
The family has been trying to reach Washington or his relatives, urging him to turn himself in.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Washington is a suspect, but the case remains under active investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to contact local law enforcement.