NEW ORLEANS — A shooting at the renowned Dooky Chase Restaurant in Tremé has left one person dead and three others injured, sparking concerns among the community late Friday night. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) responded quickly to the incident, which officials have labeled a targeted attack.
According to NOPD Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick, a 19-year-old man was fatally shot after running into the restaurant while fleeing from an assailant. Kirkpatrick emphasized that the restaurant and its patrons were not the intended targets; rather, the deceased was specifically pursued by the shooter. The shooting unfolded in the foyer as the victim sought refuge from the gunfire.
Two of the injured victims are reported to be in critical condition, with one undergoing surgery. The third sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is stable. All three victims have been identified as visitors to the city, raising concerns about safety for tourists and locals alike.
Dooky Chase’s reputation as a historical landmark, known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, juxtaposes sharply with the violence that erupted on what is usually a bustling Friday evening. The establishment, a favorite among both residents and tourists, was founded in 1941 and has a long-standing relationship with civil rights activism, famously hosting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the struggle for equality.
Superintendent Kirkpatrick noted that the shooter, who is still at large, fled the scene but returned briefly before escaping again. The police are actively reviewing surveillance footage that may provide insights into the suspect’s identity and movements. Kirkpatrick urged community members to check their home security cameras for any relevant footage that could assist in the investigation.
“This is not who we are,” said Kirkpatrick, addressing the community’s spirit and safety. “We are a safer city, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that our neighborhoods remain so.”
The incident has understandably unsettled both locals and visitors, prompting public figures to rally around the affected families. Police have not yet released the identities of the victims, nor have they provided details regarding the suspected shooter.
NOPD is in close communication with federal partners as they continue their investigation, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in bringing the perpetrator to justice. As the restaurant remains a significant cultural symbol for New Orleans, the hope is that this tragic event does not overshadow its substantial legacy.