New Orleans police arrested actor Shia LaBeouf early Tuesday morning following an alleged brawl in the city’s French Quarter during Mardi Gras celebrations. The 39-year-old actor faces two counts of simple battery, according to police reports. The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. In the 1400 block of Royal Street, a popular area within the historic district.
The New Orleans Police Department responded to reports of an assault at a business on Royal Street, where LaBeouf was allegedly involved in a physical altercation with two men. Initial reports indicate that LaBeouf was asked to leave the establishment before the incident unfolded. The actor, known for roles in films like “Transformers” and “Honey Boy,” has a history of public incidents and legal challenges.
According to the police, LaBeouf allegedly struck one of the victims with closed fists multiple times after being removed from the premises. He then reportedly returned to the area, leading to further confrontation. Paramedics were called to the scene and provided medical attention to LaBeouf, who did not appear to have sustained serious injuries, while engaging with emergency personnel. A photographer at the scene reported seeing LaBeouf being transported in an ambulance with its lights activated.
This arrest comes after a period of extended Mardi Gras celebrations for LaBeouf, who had been reportedly visiting bars in the city since Thursday. The incident at R Bar in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, co-owned by musician Greg Dulli, is where the altercation took place, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed.
LaBeouf’s legal history includes a 2017 arrest in Savannah, Georgia, for public intoxication and disorderly conduct, leading to a court-ordered rehabilitation program. He has publicly discussed his struggles with addiction and mental health, linking his substance employ to unresolved childhood trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. His sobriety has been described as intermittent, with ongoing efforts to maintain recovery through therapy and structured programs.
The actor has also faced serious allegations of abuse from former girlfriend FKA twigs, who filed a lawsuit in 2020 alleging physical and emotional abuse. The Los Angeles Times noted this history of violent behavior in its reporting on the recent arrest.
As of Wednesday, February 17, 2026, LaBeouf remains in custody and is facing the two simple battery charges. Axios New Orleans confirmed the charges.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the legal process unfolds. It remains to be seen what impact this incident will have on LaBeouf’s career and ongoing recovery efforts. The actor was recently appearing at film festivals promoting his latest projects, including “The Phoenician Scheme” and “Slauson Rec,” as reported by The Associated Press.
What comes next for LaBeouf will depend on the outcome of the legal proceedings and any potential impact on his professional commitments. The case is likely to draw significant media attention, given LaBeouf’s high profile and past legal issues.
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