In a statement Thursday afternoon, New Orleans Police Superintendent Michelle Woodfork praised law enforcement officers who helped protect this year’s Mardi Gras celebration.
Woodfork noted the work of her agency, sheriff’s offices from around the state, and Louisiana State Police to create a safe environment for partygoers.
Despite the efforts, a shooting along the Bacchus Parade route Sunday left one dead and four others injured. Woodfork said a suspect was quickly apprehended by officers. In another shooting, one of Woodfork’s cousins “who was doing nothing” according to the superintendent, was killed.
Woodfork said law enforcement officers confiscated 244 guns in the French Quarter, the Downtown Development District, and along parade routes during the Mardi Gras festivities.
Louisiana State Police troopers on foot patrol removed 44 of the 244 firearms from individuals on Bourbon Street and the surrounding French Quarter area.
A social media post from State Police noted 125 troopers from throughout the state, including locally, engaged in motorcycle patrol, vehicle patrol, foot patrol and air support during a five day deployment in the French Quarter. “These efforts and results have had a direct and positive impact on the security of the Mardi Gras season,” the statement said.
A total of 352 arrests were recorded during the celebration, ranging from public intoxication to murder.
