Police Officer Killed in New Orleans By Man Who Refused to Wear a Face Mask

by 03/03/2021

Martinus Mitchum, a police officer working security at a high school basketball game in New Orleans, was shot and killed over a dispute that began when a man named John Shallerhorn attempted to enter the school without wearing a mask.

According to police, Shallerhorn first had a confrontation with a school employee when he was not allowed to enter for not wearing a mask. Mitchum then intervened to break up the altercation.

When Shallerhorn appeared to be leaving, he pointed the gun at Mitchum and shot him twice before placing the gun on the ground.

Shallerhorn was arrested and charged with first-degree murder of a policeman as well as armed robbery as he also reportedly held a man at gunpoint and stole his medallion chain prior to the altercation with the officer.

Tulane Police Chief Kirk Bouyelas expressed his grief about the incident.

“We are deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic death of TUPD Corporal Martinus Mitchum,” the statement reads, according to WVUE. “Corporal Mitchum was a dedicated police professional who had a heart of service for the Tulane community. We have reached out to his family and are providing support to his fellow officers during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and with all the fellow officers with whom he served.”

Print Friendly, PDF & Email