NOPD Releases Video of Suspect in Theft of Plaque Commemorating Tragic Fire

The NOPD is asking for the public's assistance in identifying the suspect who stole a plaque commemorating the victims of a tragic fire at the Upstairs Lounge in 1973.

The plaque was affixed to the sidewalk in front of the former Upstairs Lounge in the 600 block of Iberville. Sometime in the early hours of April 30, 2024, an unidentified Black male (pictured) removed the plaque and toted it away in a garbage can.

"The act of removing or damaging this memorial is not just a petty theft; it is an assault on the memories of those who perished and an affront to the values we hold dear as a community. The New Orleans Police Department is fully committed to investigating this crime and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable," said NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick.

Video of the crime can be viewed at the below link:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FzprCiAc644

Anyone with information about this suspect or this crime, is asked to contact Eighth District detectives at (504) 658-6080 or Crimestoppers anonymously at (504) 822-1111.