NEW ORLEANS — A man was injured, and another was arrested following a shooting near Champions Square late Friday night.
The New Orleans Police Department said the incident occurred just after 11 p.m. in the 700 block of LaSalle Street, the location of Champions Square, shortly after a concert at the Smoothie King Center and the high school football state championship game at the Superdome.
NOPD arrested Gavin Calais as the suspected shooter and booked him in the New Orleans Justice Center on one count of 2nd-degree Murder and a weapons violation charge.
Police say the victim and his family along with Calais and his girlfriend were exiting the football game. The victim and Calais allegedly got into an argument. Police said the victim was then allegedly shot by Calais.
The shooting unfolded near fans and families waiting for their teams and support groups after the game.
Nearby officers from the Franklinton Police Department and deputies from the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office who were there escorting teams to the game, responded quickly, rendering life-saving aid to the injured man before paramedics arrived.
“I know it was frightening as my own family was there, taking cover behind concrete blocks," said the Franklinton Police Department in a statement posted to social media.
"Situations such as this can be very traumatic, so parents, sit down and talk with your kids. It's okay to be upset about it, it's okay to be fearful and it's okay to be glad you weren't injured. All of these things are natural responses to unnatural circumstances.”
“We got everyone home safe and sound and for that, I give God the glory. I'm proud of our team, I'm proud of our support groups and I'm proud of our fans. You exhibited toughness, resolve class and courage under fire......for that, we are Champions!”
The New Orleans Police Department has not yet identified the victim or the alleged shooter, though the scene was secured, and the investigation remains ongoing.
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