In the early hours of New Year’s Day, tragedy struck New Orleans as a speeding truck rammed into a crowd on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. The street, bustling with New Year’s celebrations, became the site of chaos when the driver broke through police barricades and targeted revelers. After exiting the vehicle, the assailant opened fire, injuring two police officers. Law enforcement returned fire, killing the attacker.
Local authorities initially reported 10 fatalities and 35 injuries, with victims rushed to area hospitals. Hours after the attack, the FBI confirmed improvised explosive devices were found in the truck. Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick stated the incident was a deliberate act, dismissing any suggestion of impaired driving.
Reactions From Leaders
President-elect Donald Trump also commented on the attack, linking it to crimes committed by immigrants. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote,
“When I said that the criminals coming in are far worse than the criminals we have in our country, that statement was constantly refuted by Democrats and the Fake News Media, but it turned out to be true. The crime rate in our country is at a level that nobody has ever seen before. Our hearts are with all of the innocent victims and their loved ones, including the brave officers of the New Orleans Police Department. The Trump Administration will fully support the City of New Orleans as they investigate and recover from this act of pure evil!”
It increasingly looks like an Islamist terror cell is behind the attack in New Orleans.
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) January 1, 2025
Fox News security experts say the attacker is suspected of having had 4-5 accomplices and that it’s unlikely that he built the bombs himself. pic.twitter.com/qySEvjUOrB
Presidential Reaction
President Joe Biden was briefed on the attack and expressed his condolences to the victims and their families. In a statement, the White House assured federal support for the ongoing investigation. FBI agents are collaborating with local authorities to determine the motive and any broader threats.
The horrific event underscores the importance of vigilance during large public gatherings.