At least 10 people have been killed and dozens injured after a car drove into a crowd at the intersection of Bourbon and Iberville Streets in New Orleans early on New Year’s Day.
The tragic event occurred around 3:15 a.m., as the city’s New Year’s celebrations wound down and just hours before the highly anticipated AllState Bowl, a college football quarterfinal set to take place at the Caesars Superdome. Thousands are expected to attend the game.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect behind the attack was fatally shot, reportedly by a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officer. Officials have not yet released the suspect’s identity.
Terrorism Investigation Underway
The incident has been classified as a terrorist attack by New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, who stated she has been in communication with the White House regarding the situation. The investigation is being led by the FBI, which is examining an IED-type device reportedly brought into the French Quarter by the suspect.
“A Louisiana State Trooper flagged the suspicious device,” sources revealed, prompting further investigation. Law enforcement is now searching for additional suspicious packages, believed to be explosive devices, across the French Quarter. The ongoing investigation reflects heightened concern over potential further threats in the area.
Law Enforcement Response
Authorities, including local police, state troopers, and federal agents, have heavily deployed across the city’s iconic French Quarter to secure the area and investigate the attack. Police have yet to confirm whether any additional suspicious packages have been located.
Mayor Cantrell expressed condolences to the victims and their families while emphasizing the city’s commitment to safety in the face of what she described as an “unprecedented act of violence.”
Community Impact
The tragedy comes as New Orleans celebrates its first large-scale New Year’s Eve and college football bowl festivities following years of pandemic-related restrictions. With large crowds expected at the Caesars Superdome, local law enforcement and event organizers are reinforcing security protocols to ensure public safety.
Investigators are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as they continue to assess the scope of the attack.
Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
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