A New Orleans startup is turning haptic VR blasters into military training surrogates after scoring Army contracts, and it wants to build them locally. The company says consumer sales will help fund scaled manufacturing.

Kenner Mayor Michael Glaser and Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal filed for re‑election as qualifying opened; police‑chief and council contests are also filling up.

NOPD named Jeffrey Michael Hunt in an identity-theft probe that alleges a stolen Social Security number was used to open a utility account. Detectives want tips.

State police say a 21-year-old was arrested after allegedly exchanging sexually explicit messages with who he believed to be a 15-year-old. The investigation remains active.

A routine traffic stop in Kenner on January 26 led to a drug arrest after officers observed narcotics in plain view and found additional drugs concealed on a passenger, police said.

A man was arrested after an apparent hostage incident in Tremé; NOPD says officers freed a woman and took the suspect into custody.

A woman was hospitalized after a parade float ran over her foot on St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans; the NOPD is investigating but details are scant.

Jefferson Parish Transit announces service adjustments for the 2026 Carnival Season from February 6-17 to accommodate parade routes and ensure safety.

An adult woman was shot early Saturday near Wales and Mullet streets in Seabrook; NOPD says detectives are investigating and asking witnesses to call.

St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper announced he won't seek reelection in 2027, planning to focus more on family and volunteering post-retirement.

A pipeline rupture near Holly Beach sent smoke over Johnson Bayou and left one worker injured while community monitors recorded particle and VOC spikes.

The Seabrook Bridge in Louisiana is closed due to a failed span lock motor, with repairs expected to take a week. Traffic updates are available through 511 Louisiana.

Sunny, mild day with highs near 70°F. Small craft advisory Friday for coastal waters; dry through the weekend.