Conflicting Reports Emerge Following Deadly New Year’s Day Attack on Bourbon Street
New Orleans, LA – Authorities are offering conflicting accounts in the aftermath of a horrific New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street that left 12 dead and 26 injured in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter.
During an initial press briefing, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell referred to the attack as a “terrorist act,” while the FBI later clarified that the incident does not currently meet the definition of 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 of revelers on Bourbon Street. After the vehicle came to a halt, the suspect reportedly exited and began shooting, causing additional casualties before being neutralized by law enforcement.
The FBI has since taken over the investigation. Officials discovered an improvised explosive device (IED) near the scene during their preliminary assessment. Authorities are working to determine whether the device was operational and posed an immediate threat.
An eight-block area surrounding the attack site remains cordoned off as federal, state, and local agencies conduct a meticulous investigation. Residents and visitors are being urged to avoid the French Quarter until further notice.
In the hours following the attack, Mayor Cantrell reiterated her belief that it was an act of terrorism. However, an FBI spokesperson countered this assertion, stating, “At this time, we have no evidence to classify this as a terrorist incident. This is an evolving situation, and we are carefully analyzing all evidence to determine the motive and whether the suspect acted alone.”
The devastating attack has left the city in mourning, with local hospitals treating numerous victims for injuries sustained in both the vehicle ramming and subsequent gunfire. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased, pending family notifications.
Federal investigators are now focused on uncovering the suspect’s background, potential connections, and the sequence of events leading up to the tragedy.
This is a developing story. Officials are expected to provide additional updates as the investigation progresses.
