New Orleans’ iconic French Quarter was the site of a devastating attack in the early hours of New Year’s Day, leaving 10 people dead and over 30 injured. The driver of a pickup truck intentionally rammed into a crowd on Bourbon Street before engaging in a deadly shootout with police, authorities confirmed.
The attack, described as an act of terrorism by local officials, turned the lively heart of New Orleans into a scene of chaos and grief. Bourbon Street, known for its vibrant nightlife, was packed with revelers celebrating the holiday when the tragedy unfolded around 3:15 a.m.
“Hell-Bent on Carnage”
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated the driver appeared intent on causing maximum harm.
“It was very intentional behavior. This man was trying to run over as many people as he could,” Kirkpatrick said during a press conference.
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After the vehicle came to a stop, the suspect exited and opened fire on responding officers. Police returned fire, killing the man at the scene. Two officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries, adding to the already substantial toll of 33 people hurt during the rampage.
The FBI is investigating the attack, with officials recovering a handgun and an AR-style rifle and reportedly searching for potential explosive devices in the vicinity. FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alethea Duncan revealed that one suspected improvised explosive device was being examined.
Community in Mourning and National Response
Mayor LaToya Cantrell condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism. New Orleans’ residents and visitors expressed shock and sorrow as the bustling French Quarter ground to a halt under heavy police presence.
Among the chaos, some witnesses recounted harrowing moments. Zion Parsons, an 18-year-old, described seeing bodies strewn across the street and hearing gunfire after narrowly escaping the vehicle’s path. “It was like a nightmare I couldn’t wake up from,” he told local reporters.
Hours later, former President Donald Trump weighed in on the tragedy. In a social media post, he speculated that the driver might have been an illegal immigrant despite no confirmation of the suspect’s identity or immigration status.
A City Struggles to Heal
Even as officials work to restore a sense of safety, Bourbon Street remains marked by the scars of the attack. For many, the French Quarter is a symbol of resilience, and efforts to rebuild are underway as investigators continue their work.
President Joe Biden expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the need for unity and strength in the face of violence. “There is no justification for such senseless acts,” Biden said in a statement.
With thousands of visitors still in town for the Sugar Bowl and other festivities, the city is striving to balance mourning with moving forward. Meanwhile, officials urge caution and patience as they piece together the events leading to one of the darkest moments in New Orleans’ recent history.
Featured image via screengrab
