Police responding to an incident in the crowd of the French Quarter
A hit-and-run incident in New Orleans injured a police officer and a sheriff’s deputy late Saturday night. The suspect, Mark Hunter Jr., has been arrested and charged with hit-and-run driving. Authorities responded swiftly, transporting the injured officers to a hospital. One officer is in serious condition with head injuries, while the other received on-site treatment. Hunter is being held without bond as the investigation continues.
New Orleans – A hit-and-run incident late Saturday night resulted in injuries to a New Orleans police officer and an Orleans Parish Sheriff’s deputy, prompting a swift response and eventual arrest of the suspect, 23-year-old Mark Hunter Jr. of Belle Chasse, Louisiana. The crash occurred shortly before midnight near the intersection of Bourbon and Conti streets in the French Quarter.
Hunter has been charged with hit-and-run driving, and faced with the severity of the incident, additional charges may be forthcoming, including attempted murder and aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon. He was booked into Central Lockup on Monday after receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the collisions.
Officers from the French Quarter Task Force observed Hunter’s Chevrolet Camaro performing “doughnuts” in the area, prompting them to attempt a traffic stop. As law enforcement approached, Hunter accelerated towards the officers, striking both the police officer and the sheriff’s deputy, who were conducting a foot patrol nearby.
The New Orleans EMS responded quickly, transporting the injured officer to a local hospital, where he is currently listed as stable but remains in serious condition due to head injuries. The Orleans Parish deputy received on-scene treatment from EMS and NOPD officers trained in emergency medical response and did not require hospitalization.
The pursuit of Hunter ended when officers traced him to a parking garage in the 300 block of Canal Street, where they located his vehicle and took him into custody. Hunter also sustained injuries during the incident and was subsequently transported to the hospital. Following medical clearance, he was booked into Central Lockup around noon on Saturday.
A judge ordered Hunter to be held without bond during a Saturday afternoon hearing, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges he faces. His next court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday, July 22, where further legal proceedings will take place.
The injured officer, who has served the New Orleans Police Department for eight years, is conscious and alert. The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office has expressed support for the injured officers, noting the courage demonstrated by law enforcement personnel amid such volatile situations.
The incident unfolded within the bustling French Quarter, a popular entertainment district known for its nightlife. The area was particularly crowded at the time of the incident, increasing the risk of harm to both law enforcement and civilians alike. Street racing and reckless driving activities have increasingly raised concerns in urban areas, highlighting the need for law enforcement vigilance.
The New Orleans Police Department and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office continue to work collaboratively to ensure public safety in the city. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the dangers officers face daily while performing their duties. Police officials have reiterated their commitment to holding individuals accountable for reckless behavior that endangers others.
The events surrounding this incident will likely encourage discussions on law enforcement tactics and community safety measures moving forward, as authorities remain focused on advancements in response strategies and preventive measures to address reckless driving and its implications on public safety.
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