NEW ORLEANS — A tragic shooting at the historic Dooky Chase Restaurant has sent shockwaves through the community, where a 19-year-old man was killed and three others were injured on Friday evening. In response to the incident, Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans has increased its reward for information from $5,000 to $13,500.
New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick shared that the shooting involved a single gunman, though other individuals may have participated in the attack. Authorities are seeking public assistance and are particularly interested in descriptions of people and vehicles that may have been present during the incident. “If you reflect back and think, ‘I saw something unusual,’ we urge you to reach out,” Kirkpatrick said.
According to police reports, the deceased, identified as Kareem Harris, was reportedly being pursued by the shooter into the restaurant. In a desperate attempt to escape, Harris was shot as he sought refuge in the foyer of the establishment. The barrage of gunfire also injured three women, two of whom were visiting from Los Angeles.
One of the Los Angeles visitors sustained multiple gunshot wounds and underwent several surgeries, currently listed in serious condition. The other woman has stabilized following surgery. A third victim from Lake Worth, Florida, suffered minor graze wounds and was treated and released the same evening.
The full circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the shooter’s identity and possible motive, remain unclear. Kirkpatrick theorized it might have been a retaliatory attack, igniting concern among locals and visitors alike.
Kareem Harris’s older sister, Kia Simmons, addressed the media during a family press conference, describing her brother as a joyful person known for his humor. “He just made people laugh,” she said, emphasizing that her brother held no animosity toward anyone. Simmons expressed confusion over the suggestion of retaliation, firmly stating, “My little brother didn’t do anything to you.”
The police continue their search for the gunman and any accomplices who may have been involved in the fray. Community members are urged to come forward with any information that could assist law enforcement in bringing the perpetrators to justice.