New Orleans police are asking for the public’s help to track down a woman they say was behind the wheel of an SUV that struck victims during a late-night confrontation in New Orleans East. The incident unfolded Friday on the 6700 block of Chef Menteur Highway, and investigators say the driver took off before officers arrived. Detectives have now released a name and photo while they press the community for tips.
Police Say Verbal Fight Turned Into SUV Strike
According to a NOPD Facebook post, the suspect is 29-year-old Monique LaRecia Harris (DOB March 27, 1995), described as a Black female. Investigators say a verbal altercation broke out around 11:11 p.m. Friday, and that Harris then used a black Jeep Cherokee with a broken rear window to hit the victims before driving away.
The department’s notice also reminds the public that “all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty,” a standard line but an important one as detectives work the case.
How To Share What You Know
Anyone with information is urged to contact Seventh District detectives at 504-658-6070. Those who prefer to stay anonymous can call Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP. Tips can also be submitted online via Crimestoppers GNO, a route frequently highlighted on the City of New Orleans site.
What an Aggravated Battery Charge Involves
Under R.S. 14:34, aggravated battery is a felony that typically involves a battery carried out with a dangerous weapon or one that causes serious bodily injury. Legal references note that everyday objects can count as “dangerous weapons” when used in a way likely to cause great bodily harm, which is how an incident like this can fall into aggravated territory instead of a lesser charge.
Police Lean On Public To Move Case Forward
The department has increasingly turned to social media alerts and citywide notices to drum up leads, and recent City bulletins show a steady stream of similar wanted-suspect advisories, complete with contact numbers and tip instructions.
In this case, police have not said whether any arrest has been made or formal charges filed. The current announcement focuses on the search itself, asking anyone with information — including potential dashcam or surveillance video from the area — to contact Seventh District detectives or reach out anonymously through Crimestoppers.
