New Orleans: 10 killed in shooting near French Quarter

Two others wounded and in critical condition

New Orleans police investigate the scene of a shooting Sunday, December 1, 2019, on the edge of the city's famed French Quarter in New Orleans. Max Becherer/The Advocate via AP

New Orleans police say 10 people have been killed in a shooting near the American city’s famous French Quarter tourist spot.

Two other people, who were shot in the torso and the chest, are in critical condition.

The incident took place on Canal Street between Bourbon and Chartres streets about 3.20am local time.

New Orleans Police Department said a person was detained near the scene but that “their possible involvement in the investigation remains under investigation”.

No arrests have yet been made in connection with the shooting.

“When people resort to gun violence to resolve problems, it never creates solutions, only innocent victims and trauma,” said the Mayor of New Orleans, LaToya Cantrell.

“We will do everything we can to wrap the victims and their families in our love and support, and bring the criminals responsible to justice."

Police Supt Shaun Ferguson said: “What happened in our city overnight was a cowardly and senseless act that we cannot and will not tolerate.

“For a fourth straight year, New Orleans continues to see significant reductions in violent crime. Mayor Cantrell, myself and all of the city leadership remain steadfast and committed to continuing that trend. We will not the acts of a few deter us.”

Police urged anyone with information about the incident to contact detectives.

“To the victims, you are in our thoughts and prayers, and we will work tirelessly to bring those behind this cowardly act to justice. That is a promise,” Mr Ferguson said.

On Sunday there was also shooting in North Dorgenois Street, in the city’s Fifth District, which killed two and wounded two, police said.