Conflicting Reports Follow Deadly New Year’s Day Attack on Bourbon Street
New Orleans, LA – Authorities are grappling with conflicting narratives in the wake of a devastating New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street that left 12 dead and 26 injured.
During a press briefing, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell described the incident as a “terrorist attack,” but the FBI later stated the event does not currently meet the criteria for terrorism.
According to sources, the driver involved in the attack has been confirmed dead.
The tragedy unfolded early Monday morning when a suspect driving a pickup truck plowed into a crowd celebrating in the French Quarter. After the vehicle came to a stop, the driver reportedly exited and began shooting indiscriminately, causing further casualties before law enforcement neutralized the attacker.
The FBI has since taken over the investigation and revealed that an improvised explosive device (IED) was found near the scene. Officials are still assessing whether the device was viable and posed a direct threat to public safety.
The crime scene remains under intense scrutiny, with an eight-block radius cordoned off as federal, state, and local agencies continue their investigations. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to avoid the French Quarter until further notice.
In the aftermath of the attack, Mayor Cantrell reiterated her belief that the incident was a deliberate act of terrorism. However, an FBI spokesperson contradicted this characterization, stating, “At this time, we have no evidence to classify this as a terrorist incident. We are thoroughly analyzing all available evidence to determine the motive and whether the suspect acted alone.”
The attack has left the city reeling, with local hospitals treating dozens of victims for injuries sustained during the vehicle ramming and gunfire. The identities of those killed have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.
Federal investigators are working to uncover details about the attacker’s background, potential connections, and the events leading up to the tragedy.
This is a developing story. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
