New Orleans faced a devastating tragedy early Wednesday morning when a driver intentionally sped down Bourbon Street, aiming to harm as many people as possible.
The Incident
At around 3:17 a.m., as crowds celebrated the arrival of 2025, a pickup truck entered Bourbon Street from the Canal Street intersection, hitting multiple people along the way. The vehicle eventually crashed into a construction truck on the 300 block of Bourbon Street... Continue reading here ▶
The driver, described as “hellbent” on causing destruction, also fired a gun at responding officers, injuring two. Police returned fire, killing the suspect. The injured officers are in stable condition, according to authorities.
“This was very intentional behavior,” said New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick during a news conference. “This man was trying to run over as many people as he possibly could. He was determined to create as much carnage and damage as possible.”
Casualties and Investigation
The attack left 10 people dead and over 30 injured. The FBI revealed that improvised explosive devices were found in the suspect’s vehicle. While the motive remains unclear, the FBI is investigating the attack as an “act of terrorism.”
Community Reaction
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed his condolences on social media, writing, “A horrific act of violence took place on Bourbon Street earlier this morning. Please join Sharon and me in praying for all the victims and first responders on the scene.” He also urged people to avoid the area.
Eyewitness Accounts
Jim and Nicole Mowrer, tourists from Iowa, shared their experience with CBS News. They heard loud crashing noises and saw a white truck speeding through a barricade. The truck passed them at high speed, followed by gunfire.
“Once the gunfire stopped, we came out and saw several people who had been hit,” Nicole said. The couple tried to assist the injured before leaving the scene.
Next Steps
The identity of the deceased suspect has not been released, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have announced a press conference at 12 p.m. CST to provide further updates.
This tragic event has left New Orleans in mourning as officials work to uncover the motive behind the attack and ensure the community’s safety.
