Tragedy struck New Year’s Day celebrations in New Orleans when a pickup truck ploughed into a crowd at high speed, leaving at least 10 dead and 30 injured. The horrifying incident unfolded at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets in the French Quarter, a historic area known for its lively nightlife and jazz culture.
A Scene of Carnage
Eyewitnesses reported that the truck driver not only rammed into the crowd but also opened fire, prompting a gunfight with police officers. Two police personnel were among those injured during the chaotic event.
“This man, this perpetrator, fired on our officers from his vehicle after crashing,” said Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick. “He was hell-bent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did.”
Emergency services confirmed the incident occurred around 3:15 a.m. local time. The French Quarter was teeming with revellers at the time, celebrating the start of the New Year.
Suspected Explosive Device Found
The FBI revealed that a suspected explosive device was discovered at the scene, heightening concerns over the nature of the attack. Authorities are investigating further.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses Jim and Nicole Mowrer recounted the terrifying moments when the truck breached a barricade at a high speed before gunfire erupted. “We heard gunfire and saw police running toward the truck,” said Nicole. “Once it stopped, we tried to help those who were hit.”
Increased Security Measures
The attack has shaken the city as it gears up for the Sugar Bowl, a major football game featuring the University of Georgia and Notre Dame. The New Orleans Police Department had already been operating at full capacity, bolstered by 300 additional officers from partner agencies.
Links to Other Incidents
This attack comes just days after a similar car-ramming incident in Magdeburg, Germany, where five people were killed, and over 200 injured. Investigators are exploring the possibility of mental illness in the Magdeburg case.
A City in Mourning
New Orleans, one of the most visited cities in the U.S., now faces the aftermath of one of its deadliest incidents in recent history. Local authorities and the FBI continue their investigation as the community grapples with this senseless act of violence.
Sources By Agencies
