Police had already increased patrols in New Orleans' bustling French Quarter before gunfire erupted on Sunday, leaving one man dead and nine other people wounded in a tourist district famed for its bars, bright lights and live music.

Extra uniformed and plainclothes officers were on duty and ambulance crews were on standby for what Mayor Mitch Landrieu said was supposed to be a festive time with college and pro football games in the city and people vacationing over the long Thanksgiving weekend.

Police Superintendent Michael Harrison said none of the victims was an intended target when two other men began arguing and shooting. Investigators continued searching on Sunday for the suspects, who fled on foot. Landrieu said authorities believe the suspects are from out of town.