A gun battle in downtown Baton Rouge early Sunday morning resulted in damage along Florida Street and Lafayette Street. Business owner Jennice Goff described the incident as individuals shooting up the entire block around 2:30 AM on Sunday. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the Hilton Hotel and several other businesses had their windows shot out. Goff, whose restaurant has yet to open, also had her establishment hit, with a bullet still lodged in the door. Despite this incident, she generally feels safe downtown during the daytime, as people are friendly and supportive. However, she acknowledges that nighttime can be rowdy, so she and others often choose to avoid that part of downtown.
This year alone, there have been three shootings in the same area downtown, two of which resulted in victims and one that was fatal. The Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) is aware of this concerning trend and has increased patrols in the downtown area, particularly along the levee and the area near the river center, where altercations have occurred. Despite these incidents, the BRPD maintains that the area is safe overall.
Goff, determined to continue earning a living, remains undeterred by the incident and the damage to her business. She sees the broken glass as something that can be easily replaced. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the gun battle downtown.