In the vibrant Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, a night of celebration turned into a scene of tragedy on Sunday, November 19, 2023, claiming the life of 17-year-old Layla Arshan McCray-Scott. A high school senior from Boutte, Louisiana, she had gathered with friends to enjoy a second-line brass band performance near a gas station at the corner of Esplanade and North Claiborne Avenues.
The joyous atmosphere was shattered when gunfire erupted.
According to her mother, Layla was an innocent bystander, caught in the crossfire of a shooting aimed at someone else. She was standing near one of her cousin's friends when gunmen approached and began firing. In the chaos that ensued, both Layla and 24-year-old Ahmontae Wishom were struck by bullets. Wishom died at the scene, while Layla was rushed to a nearby hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.
Layla was remembered by her family as a soft-hearted and friendly individual who enjoyed traveling and had recently taken an interest in modeling. The investigation into the double homicide is ongoing, and as of late 2023, authorities had not publicly identified any suspects or made any arrests in connection with the shooting. The New Orleans Police Department has urged anyone with information to come forward as they continue to seek justice for Layla and Ahmontae.
