A parade intended to show unity and support for the city’s rebuilding was instead marred by violence Sunday when shots rang out, wounding three people as the event drew to a close.
Not long after the parade wrapped up, police officers patrolling the route heard gunfire. They then found a 34-year-old man with multiple wounds, police spokesman Gary Flot said.
Minutes later, after more shots rang out, officers discovered an 18-year-old woman wounded in the leg. A man, 20, also was shot in the leg, in the same area.
All three were admitted to local hospitals, where the 34-year-old was listed in guarded condition; the 20-year-old was in fair condition, and the 18-year-old in good condition Sunday night, Flot said. Their names were not immediately available.
A crowd of thousands had gathered for what had been a festive occasion for New Orleanians determined to make their way back from temporary homes in places such as Houston and Atlanta.
The Social Aid & Pleasure Club All-Star Second-Line featured clubs marching in support of New Orleans’ renewal and their own role in the city’s future.
“This is not what I came back here to see,” said Delanda Garner, who has been staying in Houston.