Governor Mourns Victims of New Year’s Celebration Tragedy on Bourbon Street in French Quarter
At least 10 people were killed, and many others injured when a pickup truck plowed into a crowd during New Year’s celebrations on Bourbon Street in New Orleans’ French Quarter, according to local authorities. The incident occurred early Wednesday morning.
New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick reported that the driver broke through barricades and sped down Bourbon Street with "deliberate intent." He then opened fire on police officers.
“This individual was driving with the intent to harm as many people as possible,” said Kirkpatrick, adding that two police officers were struck by gunfire but are now in stable condition.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell referred to the incident as a “possible terrorist attack.” However, Assistant Special Agent Alethea Duncan of the New Orleans FBI stated they have not yet classified the event as such. No information has been provided about the truck driver, and his condition or whereabouts remain unknown.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry described the event as “a horrific act of violence” and stated that he and his wife are praying for all the victims and first responders on the scene.
Police confirmed that thousands of people were on Bourbon Street at the time, celebrating the New Year.
Eyewitness Kati Weis, a CBS News journalist, reported that a white truck broke through a barricade at high speed, plowing into the crowd, and the driver began firing a weapon from inside the vehicle. Police returned fire.
In a statement, New Orleans city officials confirmed that at least 30 people were taken to local hospitals, and 10 fatalities have been verified.
The FBI is leading the investigation. Authorities have discovered potential explosives in the area, but it is unclear whether they are related to the incident.
The White House reported that President Joe Biden has been briefed on the attack and has reached out to Mayor Cantrell to offer support.
