Truck Plows Into New Years Crowd in New Orleans Terrorist Attack

In the early hours of New Year's Day, a horrific event unfolded in New Orleans' French Quarter. A man driving a white pickup truck intentionally plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street, resulting in 10 fatalities and injuring 35 others. The attack occurred around 3:15 a.m., amid the city's festive celebrations.

Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled the incident a "terrorist attack," emphasizing the deliberate nature of the assault. "He was hell-bent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did," stated Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick. The assailant, described as wearing body armor and armed with an assault rifle, exited the vehicle and opened fire on responding officers. Two police officers sustained injuries but are in stable condition. The perpetrator was killed during the exchange of gunfire.

Key details of the incident include:

• Time and Location: Approximately 3:15 a.m. at the intersection of Bourbon and Canal Streets, a popular area for New Year's Eve revelers.

• Casualties: 10 people killed and 35 injured, with victims transported to five local hospitals.

• Assailant's Actions: After ramming the truck into the crowd, the attacker fired upon police officers before being neutralized.

• Explosive Devices: Authorities discovered at least one suspected improvised explosive device at the scene, though its viability remains under investigation.

The FBI has taken over the investigation, with Assistant Special Agent Alethea Duncan stating that officials are examining the suspected explosive device found at the scene. Despite the mayor's characterization of the event as a terrorist attack, an FBI spokesperson initially stated it was "not a terrorist event," highlighting a discrepancy in the immediate aftermath.

This tragedy casts a shadow over the city's preparations for the Sugar Bowl, a major college football playoff game scheduled at the nearby Superdome. Police Commissioner Kirkpatrick assured the public that the game would proceed as planned, with enhanced security measures in place to ensure safety.

President Joe Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland have been briefed on the situation, underscoring the national significance of the attack. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the implications of such a violent act during a time meant for celebration.

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