Lars Stiaes Dead: University Of New Orleans Student Killed In Armed Robbery Attempt

University of New Orleans freshman and military veteran Lars Stiaes, nephew of New Orleans representative Charmaine Marchand Stiaes, was killed in an armed burglary attempt this week, reports the Times-Picayune.

The 22-year-old marketing major was fatally wounded Wednesday before running to a gas station where bystanders called an ambulance. He was pronounced dead at LSU Public Hospital later that night.

The Picayune reports that Stiaes was released from Fort Campbell in December 2009 after an injury, and that he took some time off before enrolling at the University of New Orleans this semester. He had been using military benefits to finance his education. Stiaes was honorably discharged from service in Afghanistan, where he earned a National Defense Service medal, the Army Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon and more after suffering a head injury.

Fox 8 has a statement given by UNO Provost Joe M. King:

We offer our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Lars Stiaes. The University will do all that it can to help support Lars' family during this profoundly difficult time. There is no greater sadness for a university than when it loses a student, every one of whom holds unique abilities and promise. The UNO community joins Lars' family and friends in mourning his death.

At this point, no arrests have been made, but police are investigating a surveillance tape and are hoping that locals will help identify two vehicles shown in the video.