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.
Update: A U.S. Marshals raid at the motel near Cracker Barrel led to a standoff, not an active shooter situation. The area remains blocked off.
Authorities in North Canton have closed all lanes of Interstate 77 in both directions due to an ongoing police incident.
The closures affect I-77 South at Shuffel Street and I-77 North beyond Portage Street, causing significant traffic disruptions.
At approximately 1:00 PM, officials confirmed that the incident involves an active shooter situation near a local hotel close to the Cracker Barrel restaurant.
Reports indicate multiple shots have been fired.
Numerous law enforcement agencies and emergency response teams are actively managing the situation.
The scene remains fluid, with resources being deployed to ensure public safety and to bring the situation under control.
Drivers and residents in the area are advised to avoid the vicinity and seek alternate routes as authorities work to secure the area and investigate.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.