In a tragic incident that has cast a shadow over New Orleans, a shooting left a 19-year-old man dead and three tourists injured. The young man, in a desperate attempt to escape the barrage of bullets, sought refuge inside the iconic Creole establishment, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, authorities reported on Monday.
The chaos erupted shortly after 8 p.m. on Friday evening. As New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick detailed, the young man was pursued down the street by his assailant. In the midst of this harrowing chase, he dashed into the restaurant’s foyer, inadvertently bringing the violence inside.
At that moment, Dooky Chase’s was bustling with patrons. Tragically, as the gunfire continued, three bystanders who were waiting for tables were struck by stray bullets. Superintendent Kirkpatrick confirmed that all three were women visiting the vibrant city: two friends from Los Angeles and another tourist from Florida.
The law enforcement officials currently suspect a single shooter, although they have not ruled out the involvement of others. As of now, the gunman remains on the loose, evading capture.
One of the Los Angeles visitors bore the brunt of the attack, suffering approximately five gunshot wounds. She has since undergone multiple surgeries. Her companion also required surgery and is reportedly in stable condition, according to Kirkpatrick.
One woman from Los Angeles was shot about five times, according to Kirkpatrick, and has had several surgeries. Her friend also underwent surgery and was in stable condition.
The victim from Florida was shot and treated at a hospital. She was later released.
Shots were fired in the foyer of Dooky Chase’s on Friday night after a 19-year-old man being chased and fired upon ducked into the establishment in a bid to escape. (WVUE)
Police said they believe there was one shooter, who is still being sought, though others may have been involved.
Kirkpatrick said that the person who was shot and killed was the target, noting that it “appears to be a retaliatory type of shooting.” The motive, however, remained unclear.
The 19-year-old killed was identified as Kareem Harris, WVUE-TV reported.
Three tourists waiting for a table at the restaurant were shot. (WVUE)
The Dooky Chase’s Restaurant released a statement following the shooting.
“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support for our guests, staff, family, and our historic restaurant during this difficult time,” the Chase family said. “As a family rooted in faith and community, we lift up in prayer all those impacted by this random and tragic incident.”
The restaurant is a culinary landmark in the city, earning fame for its Creole food and serving as a meeting place for Civil Rights leaders. Politicians such as Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama each dined there while in office.
