Tragic fall from derelict Plaza Tower spotlights urban exploration dangers

A 17-year-old student, Jacque St Ann of Belle Chasse, died after falling to his death while exploring the boarded-up Plaza Tower in downtown New Orleans with friends; the coroner ruled blunt-force injuries from a fall from height, and another teen was hospitalized with a severe arm/wrist laceration. Police warned against urban exploration of abandoned buildings, noting Plaza Tower has been derelict for years and is privately owned by Alexandria Land & Development LLC. Demolition has been court-ordered but financing and ownership issues have stalled redevelopment, though the city is pursuing a housing-related project and a potential ‘Difficult to Develop Area’ designation to aid funding, with hopes for construction by mid-2027. The owner may face charges for failing to secure the property, and police will increase patrols around Plaza Tower. Jacque’s family and Belle Chasse High School expressed condolences and said counselors would be available for students.”,