A dispute over mask-wearing led to murder of Police Officer at a high school basketball game, officials say

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NEW ORLEANS – The NOPD is investigating the fatal shooting of a police officer that occurred Friday. Cpl. Martinus Mitchum was a Tulane University police officer and a reserve New Orleans 2nd City Court Constable.

At around 6:15 p.m., nearby officers responded to George Washington Carver High School  after being notified of an officer wounded. Responding officers discovered Mitchum suffering with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was rushed to the hospital by EMS where he died of his injuries.

Police say the suspect entered the high school for a basketball game when he got into an altercation with a staff member after being asked to wear a mask. The suspect pulled out a gun and opened fire when the officer, serving as security for the event, tried to escort him out of the building. Mitchum was struck twice in the chest.

The suspect, John Shallerhorn, 35, then placed his weapon on the ground and surrendered.

Tulane Police Chief Kirk Bouyelas said, “we are deeply saddened by the senseless and tragic death of TUPD Corporal Martinus Mitchum. 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.”

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