An attempted gun buy on Loyola Avenue in New Orleans reportedly flipped into an armed robbery on Saturday, after two people were confronted by a man who first tried to get them to help him score a firearm for $200, then came back with backup and walked away with their wallets instead, as reported by WDSU.
Police account
According to WDSU, the New Orleans Police Department says the first suspect approached the pair on Loyola Avenue and asked them to purchase a firearm for $200. When they refused, he left. Police told the outlet that he later returned with another person, and that the two again pushed the request before demanding the victims' wallets. The victims handed over their wallets, and both suspects took off, according to the report. WDSU noted there were no reported arrests at the time of its latest update.
Where this fits in citywide trends
The Loyola Avenue robbery lands against a backdrop of improving violent crime numbers citywide. Year-end figures from the New Orleans Police Department showed armed robberies dropped by roughly 28% in 2025, officials said. Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick has pointed to targeted enforcement efforts and partnerships as part of the reason, while city leaders have stressed that even with better statistics, individual incidents still hit neighborhoods. That overview was reported by WVUE.
How to report tips
Anyone with information about the Loyola Avenue incident is asked to contact NOPD's First District detectives at 504-658-6010 or call Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111, according to NOPD. The Crimestoppers website notes that it accepts anonymous tips online and by phone and can help route video or other evidence to investigators. Police say they will release additional information as the investigation continues.
