National Guard Member Leaves Rifle in French Quarter Restroom

Hotel staff quickly secured the weapon to ensure public safety

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A National Guard member mistakenly left his rifle inside a private restroom at the Lafitte Hotel in New Orleans' French Quarter over the weekend. The hotel staff immediately secured the weapon and notified the guardsman, who returned to retrieve it shortly after. While a concerning incident, the hotel owner and law enforcement officials stated it appears to have been an unintentional human error.

Why it matters

The incident raises questions about firearm safety and security protocols for military personnel, especially in high-traffic tourist areas like the French Quarter. While no one was harmed, the potential for a dangerous situation was present, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance when firearms are involved.

The details

According to the hotel owner Joseph Licciardi, a National Guard member accidentally left his rifle in a private, isolated restroom at the Lafitte Hotel. A tour guide discovered the unattended weapon and hotel staff immediately secured the area by putting a padlock on the door. The guardsman returned shortly after to retrieve his firearm.

  • The incident occurred over the weekend of February 11, 2026.

The players

Joseph Licciardi

The owner of the Lafitte Hotel in New Orleans' French Quarter, who also has experience working in law enforcement with the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office.

Rafael Goyeneche

A representative of the Metropolitan Crime Commission, who stated the incident appears to have been an unintentional human error by the National Guard member.

Gen. Russel Honore

A Louisiana National Guard official who stated that commanders are addressing the incident with their troops to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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What they’re saying

“I just thank God nothing happened because it was a quick mistake and it got solved right away with no incident.”

— Joseph Licciardi, Hotel Owner (wbal.com)

“It's unacceptable, but in the context of what happened, it was just a human error; it wasn't anything intentional.”

— Rafael Goyeneche, Metropolitan Crime Commission Representative (wbal.com)

“People should be assured that every sergeant and commander is talking to their troops to make sure this doesn't happen again.”

— Gen. Russel Honore (wbal.com)

What’s next

The Louisiana National Guard has stated the incident is being handled internally, and commanders are addressing the issue with their troops to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical need for heightened firearm safety and security protocols, especially in high-traffic public areas. While no one was harmed, the potential for a dangerous situation was present, underscoring the importance of continuous training and vigilance when military personnel are tasked with carrying weapons in civilian environments.