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.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.