At least 10 people have died in an incident in New Orleans after a vehicle drove into a crowd enjoying New Year celebrations on Bourbon Street.According to Fox News, a car hit the crowd, which killed at least 10 people and injured dozens more. The driver got out of the vehicle after the collision and “fired a weapon.” Regarding the incident, City officials said: “The 8th District is currently working on a mass casualty incident involving a vehicle that drove into a large crowd on Canal and Bourbon Street.”
WGNO Reports that the incident occurred at around 3:15 AM, with possibly 30 injured alongside the 10 fatalities. According to the report, New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell said that “the attack was reportedly a terrorist act.” At the same press conference, NOPD (New Orleans Police Department) Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed that the incident was not accidental.
According to Fox News, Cantrell’s comments regarding a terrorist act have since been contradicted by the FBI, saying it wasn’t confirmed. Two police officers have also been injured but are in a stable condition.
Security Was Increased Throughout The City Before The Car Incident
Prior to the incident, the NOPD announced they would be “all hands on deck” for security throughout the city on New Year’s Eve. Fox News reports that authorities redirected 300 additional officers from elsewhere in the state to the area. On that note, the police also said they were increasing security for the Sugar Bowl, which is meant to take place later on Wednesday.
Following the incident, Jeff Landry, the Louisiana Governor advised people to stay clear.
“A horrific act of violence took place on Bourbon Street earlier this morning. Please join Sharon and I in praying for all the victims and first responders on scene. I urge all near the scene to avoid the area.”
The NOPD has reportedly shut down Bourbon Street following the incident. At the time of writing, the status of the suspect remains unclear. Authorities have not mentioned any arrests, nor do we know if they escaped the scene.
