UPDATE: Richard Thomas (DOB: 11-21-1989) has surrendered to the NOPD in connection with a shooting on February 17, 2018 near the intersection of Magazine and St. Joseph streets.

ORIGINAL RELEASE: The NOPD has obtained an arrest warrant for Richard Thomas (DOB: 11-21-1989) in connection with a shooting on February 17, 2018 near the intersection of Magazine and St. Joseph streets.

At about 3:20 p.m., the victim was reportedly driving in the 800 block of Magazine Street when he pulled over and exited the vehicle. The passenger in the victim’s vehicle reported hearing gunshots, at which time he exited the vehicle and observed two unidentified males running away from the area. The passenger walked around to the driver's side, where he found the victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The passenger then relocated the victim to a local hospital.

As investigation into the incident progressed, Eighth District detectives developed Thomas as a suspect and positively identified him as the gunman in the incident. Detectives then secured an arrest warrant for Thomas for aggravated battery by shooting and felon in possession of a firearm, as Thomas was discovered to be a convicted felon.

Investigation into this incident remains ongoing. No further details are available at this time.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Richard Thomas or anyone with additional information on this incident is asked to contact Eighth District detectives at 504-658-6080. Citizens with information that can help solve crimes are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.