Louisiana will distribute up to 250,000 free at‑home taste‑based immune test kits to residents 13+, aiming to boost prevention and produce public‑health data.

Clear, humid morning with highs near 90 and scattered afternoon storms possible. Heat index could top 100°F this weekend; heavier rain expected early next week.

An early‑morning hit‑and‑run at St. Charles Avenue and Robert Street left a bicyclist dead. Traffic detectives are investigating and asking witnesses to come forward.

New Orleans police say five people were arrested in the April 2024 Republic NOLA shooting that killed a 24‑year‑old. Officials have not released names as the probe continues.

Judge Kurt Engelhardt will take senior status, creating a New Orleans seat on the conservative 5th Circuit and giving President Trump another appeals‑court pick.

A 19-year-old was mistakenly released from the Orleans Justice Center after a filing error and was rebooked more than a week later as officials review procedures.

A man was found shot and killed Saturday on the 7800 block of Sand Street in New Orleans East; homicide detectives are investigating.

State police say an undercover online sting led to two arrests in Baton Rouge, with charges including indecent behavior with a juvenile and purchase of commercial sexual activity.

Agents say about 6,000 carisoprodol pills were seized at a Metairie apartment and a man was arrested after a federal‑state probe into illegal importation.

Chef Michael Stoltzfus says Coquette will close after nearly 18 years. The Garden District mainstay will serve its last regular meal June 26 with a final event June 27.

A new OIG letter says NORD’s coach vetting was inconsistent in 2025, with unprocessed checks and unresolved criminal cases; the agency says it is rechecking coaches.

The French Market’s Creole Tomato Festival marks its 40th year June 6–7 with tomato‑forward food, live music, a second line and family activities in the French Quarter.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely today in New Orleans; east winds and a Coastal Flood Advisory run through Friday. Expect gusts and minor tidal flooding on east-facing shores.