New Orleans Vehicle Attack: FBI Investigating as Act of Terrorism/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A truck rammed into a crowd on New Year’s Day in New Orleans, killing 10 and injuring 35. The FBI is investigating the attack as an act of terrorism. The driver, who opened fire on police after the crash, was killed in a firefight. The tragedy has raised concerns about vehicle-based mass violence.
New Orleans Terror Attack: Quick Looks
- 10 Dead, 30 Injured: The attack occurred on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter during New Year’s celebrations.
- Driver Killed: The suspect opened fire on police and was fatally shot during a firefight.
- Terrorism Investigated: The FBI is examining a suspected improvised explosive device found at the scene.
- Eyewitness Accounts: Witnesses described chaos, bodies in the streets, and emergency response efforts.
- Event Precautions: Police have heightened security for the Sugar Bowl at the nearby Superdome.
New Orleans Vehicle Attack: FBI Investigating it as Act of Terrorism
Deep Look
The Attack
The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m. in the French Quarter, a vibrant area bustling with holiday crowds. Witnesses reported a truck barreling into people along the sidewalk, leaving bodies strewn across the area.
Kevin Garcia, a 22-year-old eyewitness, described the horrific scene: “A body came flying at me.” Another witness, Whit Davis, recounted chaos as nightclub patrons were rushed out by police, who warned them to leave the area immediately.
Following the crash, the driver exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers. Two officers were injured but are in stable condition. Police returned fire, fatally shooting the suspect.
Terrorism Investigation
The FBI has confirmed the discovery of a suspected improvised explosive device at the scene, raising further concerns about the intent and planning behind the attack. While New Orleans Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick labeled the act as “hell-bent on carnage,” FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alethea Duncan emphasized the ongoing investigation into its terrorist nature.
This latest act of vehicular violence comes amid rising concerns about the use of vehicles as weapons in mass attacks.
Past Incidents of Vehicle-Based Violence
The New Orleans attack echoes similar incidents worldwide, including a 2021 Christmas parade attack in Wisconsin and a 2017 truck attack on a Manhattan bike path that killed eight. These cases highlight the challenge for law enforcement in preventing and responding to such threats.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
The tragedy unfolded just hours before the Sugar Bowl college football playoff game at the nearby Superdome, further heightening tensions. Police have assured the public that safety measures are in place, and the game will proceed as planned.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell expressed solidarity with the victims and vowed to support ongoing investigations. President Joe Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland have also been briefed on the situation.
What’s Next?
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the suspect’s motive and whether broader security measures are needed to prevent similar attacks in the future. The city mourns as it navigates the aftermath of a horrific start to the new year.
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