Tragedy struck in New Orleans on New Year’s Day as a vehicle ploughed into a crowd in the bustling French Quarter, leaving at least 10 people dead and 30 others injured. Authorities have confirmed the incident as an act of terrorism.
Witnesses reported a truck speeding into the crowded intersection of Canal and Bourbon Street before the driver exited the vehicle and opened fire. Police responded swiftly, engaging the attacker in a gunfire exchange.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed late Wednesday that the act was a deliberate terrorist attack.
NOLA Ready, New Orleans’ emergency preparedness program, released a statement describing the scene as a “mass casualty incident” involving a vehicle intentionally driving into a large group of people.
“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. There are 30 injured patients and 10 fatalities,” the statement read.
The attack occurred during the height of New Year celebrations, as the French Quarter teemed with revellers. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to provide medical assistance and transport victims to nearby hospitals.
Authorities have launched an extensive investigation to determine the motives behind the attack and to identify any potential accomplices. The tragedy has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a festive occasion, leaving the city and the nation in mourning.
