Three teenage boys are hospitalized following two unrelated shootings near the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Saturday night, with one victim sustaining a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The first incident occurred around 9:25 p.m. at the festival’s ticket booth, where deputies found two wounded boys, and just minutes later, another shooting was reported at the Ponchatoula Community Center, resulting in a separate injury.
The authorities have launched investigations into both shootings, which led to the early closure of the festival on Saturday night. As of Sunday morning, the three victims were reported to be in stable condition, and no arrests had been made. With the festival concluding earlier than intended, police officials emphasize the need for safety and respect during community events, aiming to reassure attendees for the festival’s final day.
Read full story at www.nola.com