Harvey Man Arrested for Attempted Murder After 15-Year-Old Boy Critically Injured in Marrero Shooting
MARRERO, LA – Authorities have arrested a Harvey man in connection with a harrowing shooting incident that left a 15-year-old boy in critical condition outside a home in Marrero. The shooting, which occurred in a residential neighborhood, has sent shockwaves through the community and reignited growing concerns about youth violence and public safety in Jefferson Parish.
According to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO), deputies responded to reports of gunfire late in the evening earlier this week. Upon arriving at the scene, located on the 6500 block of Dandelion Drive in Marrero, deputies discovered the teenage victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders quickly transported the boy to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Investigators have since arrested a suspect, a man from Harvey whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending formal charges. The individual is facing a charge of attempted second-degree murder, a serious felony that carries severe legal consequences in the state of Louisiana.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the shooting was not a random act of violence but may have stemmed from a personal dispute. Authorities are still working to determine the exact motive and circumstances that led to the confrontation. Witnesses in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots before seeing the victim collapse in front of a home.
“This is a tragic situation involving a young person whose life now hangs in the balance,” a JPSO spokesperson said. “We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation and ensuring that justice is served.”
The shooting has once again spotlighted the disturbing trend of youth-related violence in the New Orleans metropolitan area, particularly in communities like Marrero and Harvey. Local leaders and residents are calling for stronger intervention programs and increased community engagement to combat the cycle of violence that has claimed and endangered the lives of many teens in recent years.
“This shouldn’t be happening in our neighborhoods,” said Marrero resident Sheila Bernard, who lives just a few blocks from the scene. “Our children deserve to grow up safe, to go to school, and come home to their families—not to be caught in gunfire on their own street.”
Community activists are urging for more investment in after-school programs, mentorship initiatives, and mental health services aimed at at-risk youth. Others are calling for legislative action to tighten gun control measures and increase penalties for gun-related crimes.
Meanwhile, the victim’s family is reportedly staying close to his side at the hospital, praying for his recovery. A family friend who spoke on their behalf described the 15-year-old as a “kind-hearted, respectful kid who loved video games and spending time with his cousins.” The family is requesting privacy as they await further medical updates.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, as the investigation is ongoing. CrimeStoppers is offering a reward for tips that could lead to further arrests or additional details in the case.
The Harvey man remains in custody as of this writing. Formal charges are expected to be filed in the coming days, and he will likely appear before a magistrate judge to determine bond and the next steps in the judicial process.
As the community reels from this senseless act of violence, many are hoping for healing, justice, and, most of all, a full recovery for the young teen whose future now hangs in the balance.