In the quiet neighborhood of Gentilly in New Orleans, Adnan Alsar, a 51-year-old Syrian immigrant, had built a life for himself and his family. A hardworking and generous man, he was the proud owner of three Subway restaurant franchises. He was known in the community not just as a businessman, but as a kind soul who would give food to the homeless.
A husband and a father to three young children, Alsar was the embodiment of the American dream.
On the evening of December 6, 2017, this dream was shattered. Inside his Subway restaurant on Caton Street, an argument erupted between Alsar and a young man. The confrontation escalated, and the man pulled out a gun, firing two shots that struck Alsar. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Adnan Alsar succumbed to his injuries. The news of his violent death sent shockwaves through the community that knew him as a peaceful and dedicated family man.
The New Orleans Police Department quickly launched an investigation. Surveillance footage from the restaurant and the surrounding area proved crucial. Within a couple of days, authorities identified their suspect: 20-year-old Lavar Marquise Butler. A warrant was issued for his arrest on a charge of first-degree murder. Investigators believed the motive was a robbery that had taken a violent turn. It was also revealed that this was not the first time Alsar had faced the threat of robbery.
A manhunt for Butler ensued, and it was soon discovered that he had fled the state, possibly to Houston, Texas. For months, his whereabouts remained unknown. However, law enforcement eventually tracked him to Los Angeles, California, where he was apprehended. In July 2018, Butler was extradited back to New Orleans to face justice. An Orleans Parish grand jury indicted him on charges of second-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
