Ten people have died, and at least 35 others were injured after a man drove into a large crowd in New Orleans during the early hours of New Year’s Day, authorities confirmed.
What Happened?
At 3:15 am on New Year’s Day, a man in a pickup truck ploughed at high speed into a crowd on Bourbon Street. Police described the attack as “very intentional,” with the driver “hell-bent on creating carnage.”
“This individual was trying to run over as many people as possible,” said New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick.
The driver also fired at police officers, injuring two, both of whom are now in stable condition.
Later, the FBI confirmed the suspect was dead and that the incident was being treated as an “act of terrorism.”
Who Were the Victims?
Ten people lost their lives, and at least 35 others sustained injuries. None of the victims have yet been identified.
The injured have been taken to various hospitals in the area for treatment, with police indicating that most of the victims were local residents.
Where Did It Occur?
The attack happened on Bourbon Street, located in New Orleans’ French Quarter, a popular nightlife and tourist hub known for its vibrant bars, live music venues, and restaurants.
This area is typically packed with locals and visitors, particularly during New Year celebrations.
What Was Found at the Scene?
At a morning press conference, FBI Special Agent Althea Duncan confirmed that the investigation had been taken over by federal authorities.
She revealed that a possible explosive device had been discovered at the scene, though it is unclear whether the device was viable.
The public has been urged to stay away from Bourbon Street, particularly the area between Canal and St Ann Streets, while authorities conduct their investigation.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses have described scenes of horror.
Whit Davis, a visitor from Shreveport, Louisiana, told the BBC:
“We’d been on Bourbon Street all evening. Inside the bar, we didn’t hear any gunshots or crashes because the music was so loud.”
Police initially kept Davis and others inside the bar for safety. When they were allowed to leave, Davis recounted walking past “bodies, both dead and injured, strewn across the street.”
The investigation continues as authorities piece together the motives behind this tragic attack.
