New Orleans, January 1, 2025 – The Europe Today: Tragedy struck the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter early on New Year’s Day when a driver plowed a pickup truck into a crowd of revelers, killing 10 people and injuring more than 30 in what authorities are calling an act of terrorism. The attacker was killed in a shootout with police shortly after the rampage, which occurred around 3:15 a.m. near the bustling Bourbon Street and Canal Street intersection.
The FBI confirmed the attack is being investigated as an act of terrorism, with officials examining at least one suspected improvised explosive device (IED) found at the scene. Law enforcement combed the area for additional explosive threats as part of the ongoing investigation.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell condemned the incident, describing it as a “terrorist attack,” while Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick emphasized the driver’s clear intent to cause mass harm.
“This man was hell-bent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did,” Kirkpatrick said. “It was very intentional behavior. He was trying to run over as many people as he could.”
Police Engagement and Casualties
Following the vehicle attack, the driver exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers. Police returned fire, killing the suspect. Two officers sustained injuries in the exchange and are in stable condition.
Derick Fleming, chief bellhop at the nearby Crowne Plaza hotel, described the chaotic aftermath. “There were a couple of bodies on the ground covered up. Police were looking for bombs in garbage cans. It was pandemonium everywhere,” Fleming told the Associated Press.
Broader Implications
The attack took place in one of New Orleans’ most iconic areas, packed with New Year’s Eve celebrants and visitors for the Sugar Bowl playoff game between Georgia and Notre Dame, scheduled later that day at the nearby Superdome. The stadium was temporarily locked down as a precaution, though the game was expected to proceed as planned.
Both universities extended condolences to the victims and confirmed they were coordinating with law enforcement to ensure the safety of their communities.
FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alethea Duncan said investigations into the suspected explosive device and the driver’s background are ongoing. Officials have not released further details about the attacker or a potential motive.
The incident has left the city shaken as residents and visitors alike grapple with the aftermath of what Mayor Cantrell called “an unthinkable act of violence.”
