A police chase through New Orleans ended in deadly and baffling fashion Saturday night when troopers found a driver with a gunshot wound near Franklin Avenue and North Miro Street. Louisiana State Police say the person was rushed to a hospital, where they later died.
Troop NOLA chase ends with driver shot
According to FOX 8 (WVUE), Troop NOLA confirmed that the chase ended in the Franklin and North Miro area Saturday evening. Troopers said they discovered the driver at the scene suffering from a gunshot wound, then transported that person to a hospital, where the victim died. The station reports that authorities have not yet released the driver's identity.
State police say troopers never fired
A Troop NOLA spokesperson told FOX 8 that troopers did not fire the gun. Beyond that, officials are keeping details close. The spokesperson said he could not confirm whether anyone else was in the vehicle, whether any arrests have been made, or if a weapon was recovered. State police say more information will be released as their investigation continues.
What Troop NOLA is and how it pursues suspects
The Louisiana State Police describes Troop NOLA as a special investigation unit focused on proactive policing, traffic enforcement and crime reduction, according to the Troop NOLA page on the Louisiana State Police website. Axios has reported that the unit was created to crack down on violent crime and that it follows the statewide pursuit policy. That policy differs from the New Orleans Police Department's stricter chase rules and has fueled ongoing debate about the risks that high-speed pursuits pose to public safety.
Investigation still wide open
State police investigators are now working to piece together how a chase ended with a driver fatally shot. Officials say the case remains active and no suspects or charges have been announced. Authorities are asking for patience while they sort through the evidence and have promised to share updates when they are able.
How to help investigators
Anyone with information is urged to contact Troop NOLA through the Louisiana State Police website or use the department's online reporting portal. Investigators say witnesses who may have video or any other evidence from the area around Franklin Avenue and North Miro Street should reach out directly.
