Reports: Yorktown Heights Native Shot Dead in New Orleans

A Yorktown Heights native, who was fleeing from police in New Orleans, was killed after he burst into a home near the New Orleans Fair Grounds, according to multiple news reports. 

Joseph Cahill, 40, was fleeing from an altercation with police, according to reports. When he ran into the home near the festival, he had an argument with the residents. He was shot and killed by the homeowner, who was reported to have acted in self-defense. 

Cahill was the lighting director for Leftover Salmon, a Colorado-based band that was playing in New Orleans on April 27. He reportedly stayed after the Jazz Fest, News12 reported. He was shot on April 28 at around 2:15 p.m. according to the Times-Picayune newspaper.

His family issued a statement, which by published by The Journal News:

"We are shocked and devastated by Joe’s tragic and untimely death. He was a warm and caring man who brightened our lives with his love, compassion and terrific sense of humor. He was a wonderful brother, son, father, uncle and friend, and he will be dearly missed by the many people who were fortunate enough to have known him. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and the Boulder music community during this most difficult time. We are all blessed to have had Joe in our lives."

A funeral Mass is scheduled for Friday, May 10 at 11:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Stone Church in Yorktown Heights, according to reports. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Joe Cahill Memorial Music Award Fund, c/o Wells Fargo, 1937 Commerce St., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598.