New Orleans, LA — A devastating incident occurred early New Year’s Day when a vehicle plowed into a crowd in New Orleans, resulting in multiple fatalities and several injuries. The tragedy unfolded on the bustling streets of the city’s historic French Quarter, specifically at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Street, an area renowned for its vibrant nightlife and New Year’s celebrations.
Authorities confirmed that at least 10 people were killed and 30 others were injured as the vehicle sped into the pedestrians gathered to celebrate the onset of 2025. The New Orleans Police Department, alongside other emergency response teams, swiftly arrived at the scene to attend to the wounded and assess the situation.
The severity of the incident prompted an immediate closure of the affected area, with police cordoning off streets to manage the chaos and commence their investigation. Witnesses to the horrifying event described a chaotic scene where a vehicle accelerated into the crowd at high speed before the driver exited the vehicle and began firing a weapon, leading to an exchange of gunfire with police.
New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick addressed the media, stating the driver’s actions seemed intentional and highlighted the aggressive manner in which the vehicle was maneuvered into the crowd. “This individual was deliberately trying to hit as many people as possible at a very high speed,” Kirkpatrick explained.
During the mayhem, two police officers were reportedly shot; however, they have been listed in stable condition. The swift response by law enforcement prevented further casualties and stabilized a tense situation.
Mayor Latoya Cantrell, in a press conference, referred to the event as a “terrorist attack.” Contrastingly, an FBI agent involved in the investigation clarified later that there was no indication of terrorism linked to this tragedy. The FBI is also investigating an unconfirmed report of an improvised explosive device found at the scene, which added complexity to the security measures and investigation.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed his condolences and urged the community to support the victims and first responders. “A horrific act of violence took place on Bourbon Street earlier this morning,” Governor Landry stated, urging people to stay clear of the area and to keep the victims in their thoughts.
Social media and eyewitness accounts provided immediate updates, with residents and visitors expressing shock and despair over the sudden violence. Among the bystanders was U.S. Army veteran Jim Mower, who described attempting to aid the injured before emergency services could secure the area.
As the city reels from the incident, the New Orleans Police Department has scheduled more updates to keep the public informed. The full implications of this tragic event are still unfolding as investigations continue to determine the motive behind the horrific act and the sequence of events that led to such a deadly start to the new year in New Orleans.