Former North Carolina Officer Christopher Gillum Arrested in Florida Over Alleged Mass Shooting Plot Targeting New Orleans Festival

Authorities in Florida have arrested Christopher Gillum after investigators alleged he planned a potential mass shooting at a major public event in New Orleans, raising widespread concern and prompting a multi-state law enforcement response.

Gillum was taken into custody Wednesday evening by deputies with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office at a hotel in Destin, Florida. Officials reported that he was found carrying a handgun along with approximately 200 rounds of ammunition at the time of his arrest.

Law enforcement stated that he was located through the use of the FLOCK camera system, a license plate recognition technology used to track vehicles of interest. The system helped deputies identify and intercept him before he could leave the area.

According to investigators, Gillum was allegedly planning to travel to New Orleans during the opening weekend of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, a large-scale cultural event that attracts thousands of attendees. Authorities further allege that he intended to carry out a mass shooting and provoke a confrontation with police.

Officials also confirmed that Gillum is wanted in Orleans Parish on related terroristic threat charges. He is currently being held in Florida pending extradition to Louisiana, where he is expected to face additional charges.

Gillum previously served as a police officer with the Chapel Hill Police Department from 2004 until his resignation in 2019. Details surrounding his departure from the department have not been publicly released.

Festival organizers expressed gratitude to law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation, including federal, state, and local partners, emphasizing that coordinated efforts helped prevent a potential tragedy. They also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong security measures for attendees.

Authorities have not confirmed whether Gillum acted alone or if others were involved, and the investigation remains active. Officials say the case highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation and surveillance tools in preventing potential acts of mass violence.

Law enforcement continues to urge the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity while reassuring residents that security is being strengthened ahead of major upcoming events in New Orleans.