According to the New Orleans Police, a man was shot during the early evening of July 2nd on Canal Street.
During a fight involving three men around 7 p.m., a victim was shot in the leg, as stated by the NOPD. The victim’s age and condition were not disclosed. It was confirmed that there was one gunman involved, but the department is currently searching for two suspects who fled the scene, according to Deputy Supt. Hans Gauthier.
According to Gauthier, the victim is currently alive and receiving medical treatment at a hospital. Before being transported by New Orleans EMS personnel, officers administered a tourniquet to the victim’s leg.
Gunfire rang out in the vicinity of the intersection of Canal and Carondelet streets.
Over the past 10 days, there has been a string of violent incidents in or around the French Quarter. The shooting that just occurred adds to this growing trend, and it’s especially concerning given that the 30th annual Essence Festival of Culture is set to begin in just two days, bringing in hundreds of thousands of visitors.
In just eight days since June 22, the French Quarter has experienced a series of violent incidents. These include two fatal shootings, a non-fatal double shooting, and an assault on a shop employee, who was attacked with a railroad spike.
Gauthier explained that downtown policing plans for Essence will include walking beats and bike patrols. The main goal is to ensure the safety of attendees and let them know that they are in good hands.