At least 10 killed in New Orleans after driver 'intentionally' rams into crowd on Bourbon Street
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A driver rammed a pickup truck into a crowd during New Year’s celebrations on Bourbon Street in New Orleans early Wednesday morning. At least 10 people were killed and 30 injured. The suspect is dead, according to a law enforcement official.
Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated the driver’s actions were “very intentional.” The suspect attempted to run over as many people as possible and also shot at police officers, injuring two, who are now in stable condition.
Federal agents are investigating possible improvised explosive devices at the scene. A law enforcement robot was seen examining the vehicle.
The attack occurred hours before the city is set to host the Sugar Bowl, drawing fans nationwide, with the University of Georgia facing Notre Dame.
The suspect in the New Orleans attack is dead, a federal law enforcement official tells CNN. The suspect's actions appeared intentional, and the FBI and police are investigating the motive.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the attack. The White House stated that Biden was informed about the driver who killed and injured dozens. The FBI is aiding the investigation.
Visitors are advised to avoid Bourbon Street, which is now a crime scene. Mayor LaToya Cantrell requested the public to stay clear of an eight-block area around the street.
Federal agents are checking for possible improvised explosives. A robot is being used to examine the vehicle.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick reported that most of the injured appear to be local residents.
The driver fired at police officers, striking two who are in stable condition. The FBI will lead the investigation.
The police believe the driver intentionally targeted the crowd. Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed the driver was not impaired.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell referred to the incident as a "terrorist attack," while an FBI agent stated it was not classified as such.
Governor Jeff Landry condemned the incident and asked for prayers for the victims and first responders.
The injured were sent to various hospitals, including University Medical Center, Touro Hospital, and Ochsner Medical Center.
New Orleans police had increased security measures for the New Year’s celebrations and Sugar Bowl events, deploying additional officers and drones.
The incident occurred during New Year’s celebrations on Bourbon Street, ahead of the Sugar Bowl.
Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos when the vehicle crashed into the crowd. One witness described seeing bodies flying and hearing gunshots.
Ten people were killed and 30 injured after a vehicle drove into a large crowd in New Orleans.
