New Orleans Deadly Attack: Driver Kills 10, Injures 35 on New Year’s Day

1 Jan at 8:51 am

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New Orleans Deadly Attack: Driver Kills 10, Injures 35 on New Year’s Day/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A pickup truck driver killed 10 and injured 35 in New Orleans’ French Quarter on New Year’s Day in what officials are investigating as a terrorist attack. The incident occurred during celebrations leading up to the Sugar Bowl. Authorities found a suspected explosive device at the scene.

Superintendent of Police for the New Orleans Police Department Anne Kirkpatrick makes a statement after a vehicle drove into a crowd on New Orleans’ Canal and Bourbon Street, Wednesday Jan. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

New Orleans Attack: Quick Looks

French Quarter Rampage: A pickup truck plowed into crowds on Bourbon Street, killing 10 and injuring 35.
Suspected Terrorism: Authorities are investigating the attack as intentional, with a suspected explosive found nearby.
Emergency Response: Injured victims, including a police officer, were taken to five local hospitals.
Presidential Briefing: President Joe Biden has been informed of the incident.
Heightened Security: Officials assure safety measures for the Sugar Bowl football game will proceed.

New Orleans Deadly Attack: Driver Kills 10, Injures 30 on New Year’s Day

Deep Look

New Orleans was rocked by tragedy early on New Year’s Day when a pickup truck plowed into a crowd of pedestrians on Bourbon Street, killing 10 and injuring 35 in what authorities are investigating as a terrorist attack.

The Incident

The attack occurred around 3:15 a.m. in the French Quarter, a world-famous destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Bourbon Street was packed with revelers, with additional crowds in the city ahead of the Sugar Bowl football playoff game at the nearby Superdome.

Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick described the act as deliberate, stating, “This man was trying to run over as many people as he could.” Kirkpatrick emphasized the intentional nature of the attack, vowing increased security measures at the Sugar Bowl.

Investigation Underway

Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism. The FBI’s New Orleans office reported finding at least one suspected improvised explosive device (IED) at the scene, intensifying concerns over the attacker’s motives.

While officials have not released details about the driver or their current status, questions remain about whether the public faces any ongoing threat.

Emergency Response

NOLA Ready, the city’s emergency preparedness department, confirmed that victims were transported to five local hospitals. Among the injured was a police officer. Emergency responders acted swiftly to secure the area and provide aid to victims.

The White House confirmed that President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation, underscoring the gravity of the incident.

Community Impact

The attack shocked a city known for its vibrant celebrations and rich cultural heritage. With heightened security concerns, local officials are working to reassure residents and visitors as they prepare for the Sugar Bowl game, a major event for New Orleans.

This tragedy, occurring during a time meant for celebration and renewal, serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can strike even during moments of joy.