A tragic event involving a father who was killed during a carjacking while picking up his son from daycare has taken a surprising turn.
Carl Morgan, aged 36, was tragically shot on September 30 while he was at a daycare on Canal Street in New Orleans to pick up his son.
Authorities have stated that the alleged shooter, Raymond Wells, 21, fled with Carl’s car around 5:15 pm local time, leaving both Carl and his son, Silas, in the daycare’s parking area.
Witnesses informed WVUE that the daycare staff quickly brought the children inside after the gunfire, ensuring the safety of Carl’s son and the other kids.
In a recent development, police disclosed that merely 15 minutes post-carjacking, Raymond Wells was discovered with a gunshot injury inside the stolen vehicle.
The car came to a halt on Interstate 10 in Metairie, where Wells was found in an unresponsive state.
On October 1, NOPD Deputy Chief Nicholas Gernon reported that Wells had suffered a head gunshot wound and was in ‘extremely grave condition’ at the hospital.
Gernon indicated that Wells would face first-degree murder charges if he survived his injuries.
However, on Sunday, October 5, NOPD spokesperson Karen Boudrie announced to local news outlets NOLA.com and WVUE that Wells died that morning.
An autopsy will be conducted on Wells by the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office, and police are continuing their investigation of the situation.
Gernon mentioned that Wells was allegedly seen breaking into vehicles near Bienville Street before encountering Carl. During this time, he reportedly fired shots at other witnesses.
According to Gernon, witnesses are cooperating with authorities as they attempt to determine if anyone else fired back at Wells.
Carl’s devastated family and friends have remembered him as a dedicated chef who “lived loud, laughed hard and never did anything halfway.”
Brennan’s, a French Quarter restaurant, honored the late sous chef with an Instagram tribute, stating: “Carl’s senseless and untimely death is heartbreaking.
“Carl was a devoted father, loving partner, cherished son, and friend to all. His remarkable talent, positive energy, and immeasurable impact will be sorely missed at Brennan’s.”
A GoFundMe campaign to support Carl’s partner, Lisa, and their son has amassed over $48,000 so far.
The fundraiser expressed: “He brought heat, hustle, and heart to everything he touched — from the food he created to the people he loved. Carl was known for his fierce passion, his edge, and his loyalty.”
“We lost our friend far too soon. The shock still hasn’t faded. Losing someone with that kind of energy and presence leaves a hole you can feel. He wasn’t just a chef — he was a force. He pushed, inspired, mentored, and made every kitchen feel alive.”
The tribute continued: “But more than anything, Carl was a family man. His son, Silas, was his world — his reason, his pride, and his heartbeat. And right there beside him was Lisa, his partner in life — his rock, his love, and his best friend.
“Every long day, every grind, every ounce of passion Carl poured out was for them. Together, they were his home and his purpose.”