The Treme community is in deep mourning following the tragic and violent death of Kareem Harris, a 19-year-old Treme resident who was fatally shot Friday evening at the historic Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans.
The shooting occurred around 8 p.m. Friday when Kareem was being chased by an armed assailant. In an attempt to escape, he ran inside the front entrance of the well-known neighborhood restaurant. The shooter followed him inside and opened fire near the doorway.
Kareem was struck by gunfire and died at the scene, authorities confirmed. His death unfolded inside one of Treme’s most cherished cultural landmarks, intensifying the grief felt throughout the neighborhood.
During the gunfire, three innocent patrons, all women who were standing just inside the entrance, were also struck. They were transported to a local hospital by paramedics and treated for gunshot wounds. Police have stated that the women were not targets, nor was the restaurant itself.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed that Kareem lived in the Treme neighborhood and that his family arrived at the scene Friday night, where they were met with devastating news.
As of Saturday, the suspect remains at large. Authorities described the shooter as wearing a black hooded sweatshirt. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are assisting in the search. Investigators are urging residents and businesses to review surveillance footage and report any information that could help identify the suspect. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for tips that lead to an arrest.
Kareem Harris was only 19 years old, a young man whose life was taken far too soon. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire Treme community. As residents grieve, they are also coming together in sorrow, remembrance, and solidarity.
Treme mourns the loss of Kareem Harris.
May his memory be honored, his life remembered, and may he rest in peace.
