Survivor of New Orleans terror attack feels 'Lucky to Be Alive' despite severe Injuries

Jeremi Sensky, paralyzed for over 20 years, recalls the horrifying New Year's Day attack that left him with broken legs.

On New Year’s Day, tragedy struck New Orleans when a terrorist attack claimed the lives of more than a dozen people and left many others injured. The attacker, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove a vehicle into a crowd before opening fire. Jabbar was killed in a shootout with police.

Among the survivors is Jeremi Sensky, who has been paralyzed since 1999. Sensky shared his experience with NBC News from his hospital bed, recalling how he lay on the ground amidst the wreckage of his wheelchair. "My wheelchair was completely smashed, with parts scattered everywhere," Sensky said. "I assume I was hit by the truck."

Despite suffering broken bones in both legs, Sensky expressed gratitude, saying, "I'm alive. I feel lucky."

Medical Experts Describe the Aftermath

Dr. Jeffrey Elder from the University Medical Center New Orleans reported that most victims at the hospital suffered from blunt force trauma, while a few had gunshot wounds.

Paige Bryan, another survivor, appeared on NewsNation’s Banfield and described the attack as “very, very, very traumatic,” recounting the horrific sight of people being struck by the vehicle.

Authorities Investigate the Suspect’s Motive

The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was captured on surveillance footage shortly before the attack. FBI investigators are piecing together his motives, with some family members shedding light on his descent into radicalization.

Nation Mourns

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are scheduled to visit New Orleans on Monday. They plan to meet with families of the victims and local officials to offer their condolences and support.

This devastating event has left a deep scar on the community, but stories of resilience, like that of Jeremi Sensky, stand as a testament to human strength in the face of unimaginable tragedy.