Former Police Officer Arrested With Ammo Cache in Alleged New Orleans Jazz Fest Mass Shooting Plot

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A former North Carolina law enforcement officer was arrested in Florida after investigators say he was planning a mass shooting at one of Louisiana’s largest public events, prompting praise for a coordinated multi-state response that authorities believe may have prevented a tragedy.

The suspect, Christopher Gillum of Chapel Hill, is accused of plotting an attack at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival before intending to die by “suicide by cop,” according to officials.

Florida deputies arrested Gillum Wednesday night after investigators tracked him to a Destin hotel using the county’s Flock camera network.

Authorities said officers moved in after confirming his location and recovered a handgun along with nearly 200 rounds of ammunition from the room following the arrest.

Officials have not said how long he had been staying there before being taken into custody.

Gillum was wanted in Orleans Parish, Louisiana, on charges tied to terroristic threats.

Investigators alleged he intended to travel to New Orleans and target the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, one of the state’s most recognized annual events.

The festival draws large crowds of residents and tourists each year, making security a major focus for local and state officials. Authorities have not publicly identified a motive behind the alleged plan.

Festival organizers thanked the many agencies involved in the investigation and said they remain committed to maintaining a safe environment for attendees.

Organizers added that they routinely work with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners and would continue doing so throughout the event.

The festival has long been considered a signature celebration of Louisiana culture, music, and tourism, according to WRAL.

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno also praised the swift response from investigators and highlighted the level of cooperation required to stop the alleged threat before it could unfold.

In a public statement, Moreno thanked the FBI, Louisiana State Police, New Orleans Police Department, emergency management officials, and the governor’s office, saying coordination stretched from North Carolina to Florida.

She added that protecting residents and visitors remains the city’s top priority, 6 ABC reported.

Gillum’s prior law enforcement background has intensified scrutiny in the case.

Chapel Hill officials said Gillum spent much of his career with the department, serving from 2004 to 2019, before later returning in a limited civilian capacity in 2024, according to Just the News.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said Gillum also worked as a detention officer from October 2023 to July 2024 before later serving as a deputy from January to September 2025.

Officials said he resigned voluntarily and did not leave while facing disciplinary action. Carolina Beach police also confirmed he previously worked there before resigning in 2020.

Investigators said automated license plate reader technology helped authorities trace Gillum’s travel route across several states, allowing Florida deputies to quickly verify his location.

Representatives connected to the camera network noted that suspects often exploit jurisdictional boundaries when moving between states, making coordinated technology increasingly valuable in urgent investigations.

Gillum is being held in the Okaloosa County Jail as Louisiana authorities seek extradition. Federal investigators are assisting in the case, and additional information could be released as the investigation moves forward.

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