News Summary
Evans Rogers, an 18-year-old man, has been arrested by U.S. Marshals in connection with the shooting of 9-year-old Leelani Brooks in New Orleans. The young girl was injured while trying to seek safety during a shootout. Witnesses describe the incident as a senseless act of violence, prompting community leaders to call for cooperation and a $5,000 reward for information on additional suspects. The investigation continues as the community rallies around the victim’s family during this heartbreaking time.
New Orleans – An 18-year-old man, Evans Rogers, was arrested by U.S. Marshals in connection with the shooting of 9-year-old Leelani Brooks in Algiers. The young girl remains in grave condition following the incident, which has left the local community in shock.
The shooting took place on Elizardi Boulevard at approximately 1:52 p.m. on the day of the incident. Brooks was reportedly playing outside when a shootout broke out between multiple suspects. In an attempt to find safety, she ran into her home but was struck by a bullet that came through the window. At the time of the shooting, her uncle indicated that she was trying to protect her younger sister.
U.S. Marshals responded to a motel in Gretna as part of the ongoing investigation, where two individuals surrendered. Only Rogers was taken into custody, facing charges of attempted second-degree murder and illegal use of weapons and dangerous instruments. The second individual who surrendered has not been confirmed to have any connection to the shooting, and at the time of the arrest, no additional suspects were being sought at the motel.
This incident has been described by witnesses as a senseless act of violence. Community leaders have expressed their heartfelt concern for Brooks and her family, with the city of New Orleans urging residents to come forward with any information related to the shooting. A $5,000 reward has been offered by Crimestoppers for information leading to the arrest of any additional individuals involved in this incident.
In light of this tragedy, NOPD Superintendent has emphasized the need for community cooperation in preventing further violence, urging residents to put down their weapons. The emotional impact of this incident has shaken the community, with many expressing their sorrow and disbelief.
Leelani Brooks is currently receiving medical attention, and the community is rallying around her family during this difficult time. Local officials and law enforcement continue to work diligently in pursuit of justice for the young victim, aiming to ensure that such violent incidents do not occur again in the future.
The investigation into the shooting remains active, with police encouraging anyone who witnessed the events or who may have relevant information to contact law enforcement immediately. The welfare of Leelani Brooks and her family hangs in the balance as the community grapples with the realities of gun violence.
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Additional Resources
- WDSU: New Orleans 8-Year-Old Shot
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- WWLTV: U.S. Marshals Police Swarm Gretna
- Google Search: New Orleans shooting reports
- WGNO: Man Arrested in Gretna Shooting
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence Crime New Orleans
- NOLA: Man Shot and Killed at Gretna Apartment Complex
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Violence
- WSET: Gretna Man Charged in Murder
- Google News: Crime in New Orleans
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
