Biden Honors Victims of New Orleans Attack at Service/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Joe Biden visited New Orleans to honor the 14 victims of the deadly New Year’s truck attack, offering support to grieving families and first responders. At St. Louis Cathedral, he praised the city’s resilience and promised federal support for security during upcoming events. Biden also condemned conspiracy theories surrounding the attack, reaffirming that the incident was carried out by a lone perpetrator inspired by the Islamic State group.
Biden in New Orleans: Quick Looks
- Event Details: Biden visited St. Louis Cathedral to honor victims of the deadly Bourbon Street attack.
- Message of Resilience: He praised the courage of first responders and the city’s enduring strength.
- Grief Support: Biden met privately with families, offering comfort and personal stories of loss.
- Attack Overview: The suspect, an Army veteran, acted alone in the truck attack, killing 14 and injuring 30.
- Federal Support: Biden pledged enhanced security for major events like Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl.
- Victim Demographics: The victims ranged in age from 18 to 63, representing multiple states and the UK.
Biden Honors Victims of New Orleans Attack at Service
Deep Look
President Joe Biden visited New Orleans on Monday to pay tribute to the victims of the New Year’s truck attack, which claimed 14 lives and injured 30 others. Speaking at St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter, near the site of the tragedy, Biden assured mourners that they are not alone, emphasizing the resilience of the city and the nation in the face of such senseless violence.
Honoring Courage and Resilience
Biden began his visit by laying flowers at a memorial on Bourbon Street, where the attack unfolded. Accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, the president bowed his head in silence, reflecting on the lives lost. At a subsequent prayer service, he praised first responders and citizens who ran toward the chaos to save others.
“The city’s people get back up,” Biden said. “That’s the spirit of America as well.”
At the cathedral, the Bidens lit a candle in honor of the victims, joining a congregation that listened to a rendition of Amazing Grace infused with a New Orleans jazz style. Biden closed his eyes in prayer, a quiet moment amidst a somber ceremony.
A President’s Personal Touch
Known for his empathy in times of tragedy, Biden privately met with families of the victims and survivors, sharing his own experiences of loss. Drawing from the deaths of his first wife, infant daughter, and son Beau, Biden spoke of the deep pain and anger that comes with grief.
“It will take time, but I promise you, the day will come when the memory of your loved one brings a smile before it brings a tear,” Biden said during his remarks at the service.
Details of the Attack
The tragedy struck on Jan. 1, when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran from Texas, drove a truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street. The attack, inspired by the Islamic State group, left a trail of devastation before Jabbar was killed in a firefight with police. Videos posted by Jabbar prior to the attack revealed his allegiance to extremist ideologies.
“There’s no evidence of any broader conspiracy—zero,” he said, calling for unity and a focus on healing.
Victims and Their Legacy
The victims, aged 18 to 63, included residents from Louisiana and several other states, as well as a visitor from the United Kingdom. Most were in their twenties, celebrating the New Year in one of the city’s most iconic areas.
“Their loss is a loss for all of us,” Biden said, highlighting the importance of coming together as a community.
Looking Ahead
Biden announced increased federal resources for New Orleans, with heightened security measures for upcoming high-profile events such as Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl. The events have been classified as the highest level of federal security, ensuring that the city remains safe while hosting millions of visitors.
Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy emphasized the importance of resilience. “The best thing we can do is live bravely, without fear, and support the families who need us most,” he said.
As Biden continues his duties during his final weeks in office, his visit to New Orleans stands as a testament to the role of leadership in moments of national grief. The city, known for its ability to rise from hardship, begins its healing process bolstered by Biden’s message of unity and hope.
