NEW ORLEANS: At least 10 people were killed and 35 injured when a truck drove into a crowd celebrating New Year’s in New Orleans’ French Quarter, officials reported. The attack occurred early Wednesday at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Street, a popular tourist area known for its vibrant holiday celebrations.
According to Anadolu Agency, the incident took place around 3:15 a.m. local time and led to the immediate transportation of the injured to five nearby hospitals. Law enforcement sources indicated that the suspect, who has not been named, was killed in the aftermath.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled the event a “terrorist attack” during a news conference, highlighting the discovery of at least one improvised explosive device at the scene. An FBI spokesperson, speaking alongside Cantrell, mentioned that agents are working to determine the viability of the device.
Witnesses reported that the suspect opened fire from his vehicle after crashing, hitting two police officers. Both officers are in stable condition, according to local police. The FBI has assumed control of the investigation and confirmed the suspect’s death in a statement.
New Orleans Police Department Chief Anne Kirkpatrick described the driver as having an “intentional mindset,” bypassing police barricades set up to protect revelers. “He was hellbent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did,” Kirkpatrick noted, dismissing any suggestion of the incident being a case of driving under the influence.
The White House announced that President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident and has communicated with Mayor Cantrell to offer federal support in the wake of the tragedy.