The following is a statement from NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson regarding the department's ongoing investigation into an officer involved shooting incident that occurred in the area of Tulane Avenue and Elk Place on February 17, 2019.
The investigation into the fatal officer-involved shooting remains open and very active. FIT investigators are still putting together the sequence of events that transpired on the evening of Sunday, February 17th near the intersection of Elk Place and Canal Street in the Eighth District.
An autopsy on the decedent in this incident was conducted Tuesday morning February 19, 2019 by the Orleans Parish Coroner. The coroner has officially identified the subject in this incident.
Investigators also returned to the scene Tuesday morning to perform a second canvass. With the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, a ballistic dog discovered additional evidence to further the investigation. We are also working closely with other partners including Louisiana State Police and the FBI.
It is always the goal of NOPD to make an apprehension peacefully, and without incident. But in this case, responding officers were forced into a violent confrontation initiated by the suspect that unfortunately came to a tragic end.
NOPD has contacted the family of the individual killed during the incident. Mayor Cantrell and I have visited with the victims and family members of those who remain hospitalized.
As Superintendent, I want to be clear, our department will continue to provide all possible assistance to the victims in this incident. As in any case, we will be thorough and bring the investigation into the events that transpired to a just and transparent conclusion.
The NOPD’s video release policy has been enacted. Real Time Crime Center video will be reviewed and a decision will be made concerning what video from the incident will be released to the public.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the NOPD’s Public Integrity Bureau at 504-658-6800 or call Crimestoppers anonymously at 504-822-1111 and toll-free at 1-877-903-7867.
- NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson