Actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested in New Orleans on February 17, 2026, after a violent confrontation tied to Mardi Gras celebrations that witnesses describe as “out of control” and police say included repeated homophobic slurs. Authorities charged the 39-year-old with two counts of simple battery following an incident that began near the Royal Street Inn & R Bar and spilled into the street as crowds gathered in the French Quarter area.

According to a police report cited by the Associated Press, LaBeouf allegedly struck multiple people with a closed fist and continued using slurs even as bystanders restrained him until officers arrived. One alleged victim, local performer Jeffrey “Damnit” Klein, said LaBeouf appeared to single him out while he was in drag and wearing makeup, and later became increasingly aggressive when asked to leave the area.

Video from the scene has begun circulating online, showing a chaotic struggle outside the venue and a tense police response. Local reporting indicates law enforcement body-camera footage exists and is being referenced in media coverage as scrutiny intensifies over what exactly was said and done during the arrest.

LaBeouf was released without bond following a magistrate’s order, and he is expected to appear in court next month as the case moves forward. His representatives have not publicly commented.

The incident reopens a familiar question around one of Hollywood’s most volatile talents: whether this is another isolated eruption—or evidence of a deeper spiral playing out in public, again.