Two people were killed and 10 others injured in two separate shootings during a second-line parade in New Orleans on Sunday. The New Orleans Police Department is investigating the incidents, which occurred near the parade route. The first shooting happened around 3:40 p.m. in the St. Roch neighborhood, northeast of the French Quarter. Eight victims were found with gunshot wounds, and one more later arrived at the hospital. Police believe a vehicle and two weapons were involved, and shots were fired into the crowd.
Around 45 minutes later, a second shooting was reported at an intersection, where two victims were found. One was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second died at the hospital. A third victim was privately transported to a hospital and is stable.
Police immediately shut down the event, which had drawn thousands of people. While authorities have not confirmed if the two incidents are related, they are continuing their investigation. No arrests have been made, and suspect information has not been released.
The New Orleans Police Department has a history with second-line parades, notably a 2013 shooting that injured 19 people. In response to the violence, around 100 officers were assigned to this event, with additional officers on standby due to the event’s potential for danger. Second lines, cultural parades organized by Social, Aid, and Pleasure Clubs, are a key part of New Orleans’ heritage, combining music, dance, and African-based traditions.
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