Chaos erupted in New Orleans' South Market District yesterday evening when a typical grocery trip turned frightening for shoppers and staff. WDSU reported that an attempted carjacking near the intersection of O’Keefe and Girod streets led the suspect to flee into Rouses Market, located on O'Keefe Avenue, triggering an evacuation of the premises. The New Orleans Police Department swiftly closed in for an investigation and reassured the community later that the store had reopened by 9 PM.
The suspect, who was taken into custody running into the Rouses Market, was identified as 38-year-old Joel Lee Miller. Witnesses claimed seeing the suspect trying to commandeer a vehicle before a confrontation ensued, after which he escaped on foot, according to details provided by WGNO. The NOPD later confirmed these reports, adding that Miller discarded a firearm during his attempted evasion.
Authorities informed the public that Miller's attempt to flee brought him to a populated grocery store, which led to an immediate evacuation to ensure customer and employee safety. The FOX 8 Live account detailed that the NOPD located Miller inside Rouses Market at 701 Baronne St. Following a brief chase, there were no reported injuries during the ordeal, and workers were permitted to return to the building before the evening's close.
Court records highlighted by FOX 8 Live show Miller's extensive history with the law, with this incident marking his sixth arrest in Orleans Parish since 2004. He has previous convictions for aggravated battery and intent to distribute drugs, raising concerns about how the system deals with repeat offenders. More details about Miller's motives and the circumstances of the carjacking attempt are expected to come out as the story develops.
