On the evening of February 2, 2011, 22-year-old University of New Orleans freshman and Army veteran Lars Stiaes was shot a few blocks from campus during what investigators believe was a street robbery. Wounded, he ran to a nearby gas station before collapsing; he was transported to a hospital and later pronounced dead. Lars had been honorably discharged after being injured in Afghanistan and was the nephew of state Representative Charmaine Marchand Stiaes.

The university made counselors available to students after his killing, which sent shock through the community.

If anyone knew Lars, saw activity near the campus area that night, or has information that could help, please come forward.