New Orleans police have apprehended a suspect following a reckless driving incident that resulted in injuries to an NOPD officer and an Orleans Parish Sheriff’s deputy in the French Quarter. Mark Hunter Jr., a 23-year-old resident of Belle Chasse, Louisiana, faces multiple charges, including hit-and-run driving and attempted second-degree murder.
The events unfolded shortly before midnight on July 18 when officers from the French Quarter Task Force observed Hunter’s Chevrolet Camaro performing “doughnuts” near the intersection of Bourbon and Conti streets. Upon attempting to initiate a traffic stop, Hunter allegedly accelerated his vehicle, deliberately colliding with both officers who were on foot patrol.
Following the incident, emergency medical services transported the injured officer to the hospital, where he is currently in stable condition. The deputy received treatment at the scene from EMS and NOPD personnel trained in emergency medical response.
After the collision, law enforcement pursued Hunter to a parking garage located in the 300 block of Canal Street, where he was ultimately taken into custody alongside his vehicle. Hunter also sustained injuries during the incident and was taken to a hospital for evaluation before being booked into Central Lockup. He has been charged with two counts of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer with force, three counts of reckless operation of a vehicle, and six counts of hit-and-run driving.
In a statement shared on Instagram, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office expressed their thoughts for the injured officer and conveyed gratitude for the bravery demonstrated by law enforcement officers during such challenging situations. They emphasized the commitment and dedication of officers who work to ensure the safety of the community.
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily in their efforts to protect the public, highlighting the importance of supporting them during challenging times.