A horrifying start to the New Year unfolded in a New Orleans when a truck ploughed into a jubilant crowd on Bourbon Street, leaving at least 10 people dead and 35 others injured.
The FBI is treating the tragedy, which occurred in the city’s bustling French Quarter, as an “act of terrorism.”
The incident began at around 3:15 a.m. when a man in an electric Ford Lightning truck bypassed flimsy barricades and drove into the densely packed crowd at high speed.
New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick described the driver as “hell-bent on creating carnage,” adding, “He was trying to run over as many people as he could.”
Witnesses reported the truck barreling down Bourbon Street at an estimated 70mph, leaving chaos and destruction in its wake. “Within two minutes tops, the driver was long gone, and police were chasing him on foot,” said Jimmy Cothran, a bystander.
The rampage came to a violent end when the attacker crashed his vehicle and opened fire on responding officers.
Police shot the suspect dead, though two officers sustained injuries. Both are reported to be in stable condition.
FBI special agent Alethea Duncan revealed that improvised explosive devices were discovered close to the scene.
Authorities are working to determine their viability while investigating whether the attacker wielded a rifle during the rampage.
President Joe Biden called the incident a “horrific act” and pledged full federal support for the investigation. “My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday,” he said.
Incoming President Donald Trump described the attack as “an act of pure evil” and suggested on Truth Social that the perpetrator may have been a non-U.S. national.
Trump further added, “Our hearts are with all of the innocent victims and their loved ones, including the brave officers of the New Orleans Police Department.”
The attack occurred in one of New Orleans’ most iconic areas. Bourbon Street, renowned for its lively nightlife, was packed with New Year’s Eve revelers. Adding to the city’s vulnerability, tens of thousands of visitors had arrived for the annual Sugar Bowl college football game.
City officials warned people to steer clear of the French Quarter as emergency services rushed to contain the situation. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed his sorrow, calling it a “horrific act of violence” and offering prayers for the victims and first responders.
In the wake of the attack, New Orleans Police announced a full mobilization of staff and the deployment of an additional 300 officers to bolster security.
As investigators piece together the motives and origins of this devastating act, New Orleans and the nation mourn the loss of innocent lives and the shattering of what should have been a joyous celebration.
