An officer-involved shooting is now under investigation by the New Orleans Police Department following an altercation that occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. yesterday at the intersection of Basin and Saint Louis streets. According to a report from NOPD News, officers located a silver Hyundai Santa Fe, matching the description of a vehicle reported stolen.
The officers followed the suspect vehicle without trying to actively to stop it, not engaging lights or sirens. The situation escalated when the vehicle stopped and reportedly reversed into the police vehicle. Following this, an NOPD officer discharged their weapon toward the suspect's car. The suspect then fled, subsequently crashing into a white Volkswagen SUV before again fleeing the scene.
According to NOPD News, no injuries arose from the officer's discharge of their weapon or from the subsequent collision. As of the latest updates, no arrests have been made in connection with this incident. The suspect vehicle is described as having Georgia license plates with expected front-end body damage from the collision.
The NOPD Public Integrity Bureau’s Force Investigation Team will lead an investigation into the discharge of the weapon, as it is protocol whenever an officer discharges their service weapon. In addition, the Federal Consent Decree Monitor and the Office of the Independent Police Monitor were present to ensure transparency and compliance during the investigation process. These teams are generally expected to play a critical role in maintaining to safeguard the public trust in the department.
As the NOPD continues their inquiry into the matter, they urge anyone with pertinent information to reach out. Tips can be directed to NOPD First District detectives at 504-658-6010 or the NOPD Public Integrity Bureau Force Investigation Team at 504-678-6800. For those desiring anonymity, information can also be shared with Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.
