TODAY’S PAPER | February 21, 2026 | EPAPER

New details emerge in Shia LaBeouf’s arrest during Mardi Gras celebrations

Shia LaBeouf was arrested in New Orleans after an alleged Mardi Gras fight that left two men injured


Pop Culture & Art February 18, 2026 1 min read
-Reuters

Actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested in the early hours of Feb 17 after an alleged altercation while celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

According to a statement from the New Orleans Police Department, officers were called to the 1400 block of Royal Street at approximately 12:45am in response to reports of a simple battery involving two adult male victims.

Police allege that LaBeouf, 39, was causing a disturbance inside a business on Royal Street and became increasingly aggressive when a staff member attempted to remove him from the establishment. Once outside, investigators say he struck one of the victims multiple times with closed fists.

Authorities further claim that LaBeouf left the scene briefly before returning and acting “even more aggressive.” Multiple individuals reportedly restrained him in an effort to de-escalate the situation, but he allegedly struck the same victim again and later punched a second man in the nose.

LaBeouf was held down until officers arrived, police said. He was transported to a local hospital to be treated for undisclosed injuries. After being released from medical care, he was formally arrested and charged with two counts of simple battery. He is expected to appear in court Tuesday afternoon.

Video published by TMZ appears to show the actor shirtless and involved in a physical confrontation with several men before being restrained. The outlet also shared photos of LaBeouf receiving medical attention in an ambulance.

Additional reporting from The Hollywood Reporter cites eyewitness accounts alleging that LaBeouf had been seen at multiple drinking establishments in recent days. Some witnesses described him as appearing inebriated and belligerent, with one claiming he asked bar patrons, “Do you know who I am?” while posing for photos.

LaBeouf has previously spoken about his struggles with alcohol and sobriety. In 2022, he said he had reached 627 days sober following treatment. The actor has faced prior legal issues related to alcohol, including a 2017 arrest for public intoxication.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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