New Orleans, La. — A shooting at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant on Friday evening left one teenager dead and three tourists injured, prompting an urgent response from local authorities and community leaders. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) is scheduled to provide further details about the incident during a press conference on Monday at 9:30 a.m.
Nineteen-year-old Kareem Harris was reportedly followed into the restaurant by an armed assailant, who opened fire, fatally wounding him. The motive behind the attack remains unclear as the investigation is ongoing. In addition to Harris, three women visiting the city were injured during the gunfire; two of them are currently in critical condition, while their identities and statuses have not been disclosed.
City Councilman Eugene Green expressed deep concern over the violence occurring during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, a time significant for the restaurant’s rich history tied to the civil rights movement. “This establishment has been a cornerstone of cultural expression and a gathering place for many,” Green noted, reflecting on his own experiences visiting the restaurant for concert tickets in the past.
Green emphasized that events like this do not define Treme or its vibrant community. “While this incident is tragic, it is important to remember that it is isolated. The spirit of Treme remains strong and intact,” he said. He called for unity as the community navigates the aftermath of this incident.
As the investigation continues, a $5,000 reward has been offered by Crimestoppers for information that leads to the arrest of the shooter. The organization is urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the critical need for community assistance in this case.
Councilman Green extended his condolences to those affected by the shooting, including the bereaved family of Harris and the injured tourists. “Everyone impacted has a special place in the heart of New Orleans, and it is essential for us to support one another during this time,” he stated.
The city continues to grapple with issues of violence, and local leaders are hopeful that the historic significance of Dooky Chase’s will serve as a catalyst for healing and recognition of the broader social challenges facing the community.