It was deadly.
At least 10 people were killed and over 30 others injured early Wednesday in New Orleans when a man deliberately drove his pickup truck into a crowd during New Year’s celebrations, then opened fire on police officers after crashing his vehicle, authorities reported.
The suspect, who was later confirmed dead, intentionally targeted a large group of people on Bourbon Street at around 3:15 a.m., with the FBI investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that the suspect seemed determined to cause maximum harm, driving around barricades set up to prevent traffic.
After crashing his truck, the suspect shot at police officers, injuring two, both of whom are now in stable condition. Authorities are investigating whether the suspect used a long-gun rifle and if he fired into the crowd while running people over. Mayor LaToya Cantrell described the incident as a “terrorist attack” and confirmed that improvised explosive devices were found at the scene, though their viability is still being verified.
The FBI is handling the case as a terrorism investigation, and President Biden has been briefed on the situation. Many of the injured were transported to local hospitals, including the two officers. Preliminary reports suggest that most of the victims were locals rather than tourists. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill condemned the attack as a “horrific act of violence” and pledged to seek justice for the victims.
The attack occurred on Bourbon Street, a popular area in the French Quarter, which was expected to be crowded with New Year’s revelers. The New Orleans Police Department had fully staffed its forces for the occasion and had added 300 additional officers to help maintain order. Social media footage from the scene showed a significant police presence as authorities responded to the incident.
