NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Police Department is investigating two separate shootings that left two people dead and ten others injured in the St. Roch neighborhood during the Nine Times Social Aid and Pleasure Club Second line.
The first shooting happened around 3:30 p.m. in the 1800 block of Almonaster Avenue.
When officers arrived, they found eight people with gunshot wounds. NOPD says all eight victims were taken to the hospital by EMS.
According to investigators, ballistics showed that two shooters were involved at the first scene.
About 45 minutes later, two more people were shot on the Almonaster Avenue Bridge. Police say one of the victims died at the scene, and the other was taken to hospital, where they later died.
The NOPD says a third victim involved in the incident was taken to the hospital via private transportation and is listed in stable condition.
Police can't say if the shootings were related at this time.
The second line was shut down as police began investigating the incidents.
No other information is available at this time.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Anyone with additional information that can assist in these investigations is asked to call NOPD Homicide Section detectives at 504-658-5300, NOPD Fifth District detectives at 504-658-6050 or to call Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans anonymously at (504) 822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.
The City of New Orleans, Councilmember Eugene Green, and Attorney General Liz Murrill released statements following the incident.
The City of New Orleans statement is below:
"The City Of New Orleans is saddened by the loss of life as a result of the incident that took place in the Fifth District this afternoon and offers condolences to the families of the victims. We also ask the community to join us and offer prayers to the other victims that reports say were injured by gunfire.
The City Of New Orleans strongly condemns the violence that occurred and our NOPD officers are working diligently to return stability to this community as they investigate the matter.
The City Of New Orleans is asking the public to call 504-658-5300 or contact Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111, if they have any information that can assist the NOPD."
Councilmember Eugene Green's statement is below:
"First, I offer my condolences to the families of those who were murdered and injured as a result of today's tragic shooting incidents. It is unfortunate that some people focused on violence and filled with self-hatred have marred what was a fun-filled day for so many people. The day was celebrated by thousands of people who either call the historic Desire / Florida / Ninth Ward community home or who have ties to and support the community. The violence experienced today is no reflection on the people who enjoy this City and its special second line event celebrations. Most such events proceed without incident in a spirit of community. I have complete confidence that the New Orleans Police Department will conduct a thorough and motivated investigation, enlisting the use of the resources at its disposal to facilitate bringing to justice those who have caused death and hurt to people and to their families. Those persons who have information that can be helpful to the investigation of this terrible crime can be confident that your sharing of information will be treated with the utmost in confidentiality. Crimestoppers: 504-821-1111, and https://www.crimestoppersgno.org"
AG Murrill's statement is below:
“I’m saddened to learn about this senseless mass shooting in New Orleans this afternoon. I’m praying for the victims & their families. This kind of lawlessness will NOT be tolerated. I’m hopeful the perpetrators are caught soon & prosecuted to the full extent of the law."
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