Thu Jan 02 03:13:40 UTC 2025: **New Orleans New Year’s Attack: Terrorist Act Kills 15, Injures Dozens**
NEW ORLEANS, LA – A suspected terrorist attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter on New Year’s Day left 15 dead and dozens injured after a pickup truck plowed into a celebrating crowd. The driver, now deceased, engaged in a shootout with police, further escalating the carnage.
The incident occurred around 3:15 am at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets. Witnesses reported the truck, driven at high speed, breached a barricade and intentionally rammed into the crowd before the driver exited and exchanged gunfire with officers. Two police officers were wounded but are reported to be in stable condition.
Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated the driver appeared “hell-bent on creating carnage,” aiming to hit as many people as possible. The FBI, which has assumed operational control of the investigation, confirmed the discovery of a suspected explosive device at the scene and is classifying the incident as an act of terrorism.
The French Quarter, typically bustling with New Year’s Eve revelers, was packed at the time of the attack. Emergency services transported 30 injured individuals to hospitals. The FBI is now leading the investigation to determine the motive behind the attack.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry described the event as a “horrific act of violence.” The attack comes days after a similar car-ramming incident in Germany, raising concerns about potential copycat attacks. New Orleans was anticipating a large influx of visitors for the upcoming Sugar Bowl football game.
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