In the early hours of Wednesday, tragedy struck the southern U.S. city of New Orleans when a man driving a pickup truck plowed into crowds on Bourbon Street, resulting in a mass casualty incident that has left at least 10 people dead and over 35 injured. Two police officers were also shot during the chaotic events but are reported to be in stable condition.
According to New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick, the incident occurred around 3:15 a.m. local time when the suspect drove down Bourbon Street “at a very fast pace,” displaying “very intentional behavior” as he attempted to “run over as many people as he possibly could.”
Following the vehicular attack, reports emerged of gunfire from the suspect’s vehicle. Chief Kirkpatrick confirmed that two police officers were shot by the attacker, who was subsequently reported dead. Authorities are still investigating his motive.
While addressing the media, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell characterized the incident as a “terrorist attack,” urging residents and visitors to avoid the area. However, minutes later, Alethea Duncan, an assistant special agent in charge of the FBI’s New Orleans field office, stated that the incident was “not a terrorist attack.” The FBI later issued a statement clarifying that the bureau is investigating the incident “as an act of terrorism.”
Duncan also revealed that officials are investigating at least one suspected improvised explosive device discovered at the scene. Local television station WDSU broadcast footage showing a law enforcement robot examining the underside of the suspect’s vehicle.
The White House released a statement confirming that U.S. President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation.
This tragic event echoes previous incidents in New Orleans involving violence during public gatherings. In November 2024, two people were killed and ten others injured in separate shootings along a parade route attended by thousands. Additionally, in February 2017, a pickup truck driven by an intoxicated man plowed into a crowd of spectators during the Mardi Gras parade, injuring more than 20 people.
As the FBI and local authorities continue their investigation, the city grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event. Residents and visitors are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to official advisories as more information becomes available.
Reference(s):
2 officers shot and wounded in New Orleans 'terrorist attack:' police
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