A shooting during the Krewe of Bacchus parade, one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, left one dead and four injured, including a young girl.
All four wounded are in stable condition, and the main suspect has been arrested. So far it is unknown what motivated the incident, and two weapons were recovered at the site. New Orleans Deputy Police Chief Hans Ganthier stated:
With the help of our partners, we were quickly able to apprehend the subject that we believe to be responsible for this. ... This was really not something we wanted to see. ... We really wanted this to be a safe Mardi Gras, and we continue to work towards that end.
The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. in the Uptown neighborhood, located on the banks of the Mississippi River. The are was very crowded due to the large number of bars and nightclubs.
Due to Mardi Gras celebrations, the city has a strong police presence. The New Orleans Police, Sheriff's Department, Louisiana State Police and Department of Corrections are all working together. This facilitated the apprehension of the suspect and the rapid mobilization of officers to the scene when they heard the gunshots.
A "safe" Mardi Gras
New Orleans was one of the most dangerous cities in the country last year. In addition, police shortages have increased year after year. Crime was so rampant this year that officers decided to publish a list of recommendations for those who do not want to be a victim of crime on Mardi Gras.
The NOPD tells citizens: "Be safe, be smart." The recommendations include carrying purses "in front of you- or better yet don't carry a purse."
Don't be a crime victim this Mardi Gras- be safe, be smart! pic.twitter.com/ZKopFyS4NY
— New Orleans Police Department (@NOPDNews) February 19, 2023
