Tragedy in Algiers: 9-Year-Old Leelani Brooks Dies After Being Struck by Gunfire
NEW ORLEANS — With profound sorrow, the New Orleans community mourns the heartbreaking loss of 9-year-old Leelani Brooks, a young girl whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence. Leelani passed away on Thursday, just days after being shot in the head while trying to escape a shootout near her family’s home in Algiers.
On Monday afternoon, what began as a terrifying eruption of gunfire in the 2900 block of Lawrence Street quickly turned into an unthinkable nightmare. Leelani and her mother were caught in the crossfire of a violent altercation just outside their home. As the two tried desperately to flee into their house for safety, a stray bullet pierced the walls of what should have been a sanctuary—and struck Leelani in the head.
Leelani was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, and over the following days, her loved ones clung to hope. But as medical evaluations were conducted, doctors determined that Leelani was brain dead and unlikely to recover. She was placed on life support, while her family faced the unimaginable reality no parent should ever endure.
On Thursday, a family friend confirmed that Leelani had passed away, leaving a community in mourning and a family forever changed.
Leelani was a joyful, spirited young girl—a student, a daughter, a friend—who had her entire life ahead of her. Her smile, her laughter, her energy were the kind of light that filled every room she entered. She should have been safe in her home. She should have had many more birthdays, more school days, more memories to make.
Instead, her life was taken by senseless gun violence—violence that continues to claim lives in cities across the nation and leaves families shattered in its wake.
The New Orleans Police Department has arrested 19-year-old Evans Rogers in connection with the shooting. Investigators say Rogers and another man opened fire on a group of three individuals, who then returned fire. The shootout spilled into the surrounding neighborhood, and it was in the chaos of that exchange that the bullet that struck Leelani found its mark—a child caught in a crossfire of decisions she had nothing to do with.
The NOPD continues its investigation, and additional arrests may follow as authorities work to bring justice to the Brooks family.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, city leaders, community advocates, and neighbors have voiced renewed calls for stronger measures to address gun violence, especially in residential areas where children live and play. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor Leelani’s life and bring the community together in mourning and in resolve.
As we grieve the loss of Leelani, we must also confront the harsh reality of how fragile safety has become for so many families. Her story is a devastating reminder that behind every shooting statistic is a child like Leelani—a life with dreams, with love, and with a future that will now never be realized.
To her family: Our hearts are with you. No words can ease the pain of your loss, but know that Leelani’s name will not be forgotten. Her life, though far too short, will be remembered by those who knew her and by a city that now weeps with you.
Rest in peace, Leelani Brooks. You deserved a childhood free from fear, a life filled with promise. May your memory be a call to action, a symbol of the change we must fight for, and a light that will never be extinguished. 🕊️