Suspect killed in Marrero officerinvolved shooting
Oct 31, 2024
MARRERO, La. (WGNO) — The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that happened Thursday, Oct. 31.
According to deputies, around 10:30 a.m. the Major Crimes Task Force was conducting a narcotics investigation in the Marrero area at the corner of Medical Center Boulevard and 10th Street.
Abandoned New Orleans townhouse destroyed by 2-alarm fire
"At least one of the officers shot an individual who was trying to flee in a car at that point in time," said Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joesph Lopinto.
(Courtesy/Ashley Hamilton)
Sheriff Lopinto says a multi-agency task force attempted to stop the suspect, identified as 42-year-old Wendell Smith, of New Orleans, at Patriot Drive before he allegedly fled the scene.
"The car ended up fleeing probably about six or seven blocks south of this location during that flee, ended up disposing of at least one weapon and narcotics into the canal back behind us. We've located at least one firearm he ended up having at least one gunshot wound," said Lopinto.
Deputies were able to stop the man in the 1500 block of Mimosa Street and take him into custody.
Man stabbed, two arrested in Slidell attempted carjacking
Smith was transported to UMC where he later died from his injuries.
Lopinto did not comment on which agency fired the shot. JPSO is in charge of the investigation with the Gretna Police Department, Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office, New Orleans Police Department and the Kenner Police Department conducting proactive policing.
"My crime scene will come out and collect the evidence. But I mean, my homicide detectives will certainly take those interviews to figure out the circumstances. Again, I know we've located a gun on the scene, but I'm going to let those statements play out," said Lopinto.
Nearby residents say they are shocked by news of the incident.
"Well, it's pretty disturbing. I mean, it kind of scares me a little bit. And knowing that something like that could happen so close to home," said a Jefferson Parish resident.
However, they're grateful for how quickly law enforcement responded.
"I don't live in this area, but I frequent the area. It's always good to have a strong presence in a situation like that. I'm glad they not only responded but responded quickly," said a Jefferson Parish resident.
17-year-old arrested, accused in Kenner sex crimes investigation
It's unclear if the suspect fired the gun he allegedly threw out of the vehicle. No officers were injured.
West Jefferson Hospital and John Ehret High School both remained open during the incident.
Earlier today, an incident occurred near West Jefferson Medical Center on Medical Center Boulevard. The incident did not occur on our campus. Our hospital is safe and secure, and all entrances are open for staff and patients.
The safety of our hospital community is our highest priority. Our Public Safety team is working closely with Jefferson Parish Police Department to ensure normal and safe hospital operations.
West Jefferson Medical Center officials
Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.
Latest Posts
Isolated storms continue through Halloween night, more rain possible Friday
Josh Hawley, Lucas Kunce to face off in U.S Senate debate
Saints look to draw momentum from Carr's return and end six-game losing skid in rematch vs. Panthers
Fentanyl, hundreds of bullets found hidden in cars at California border crossing
Video shows massive explosion rip through battery processing plant in Missouri