New Year’s Celebration in New Orleans Turns Deadly in Suspected Terrorist Attack
New Orleans, LA – A New Year’s celebration in the French Quarter ended in tragedy when a white electric Ford SUV rammed into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street, killing 10 people and injuring 30 others in the early hours of 2025.
The attack occurred around 3:50 a.m. as the street was filled with people celebrating the new year. Following the collision, the suspect exited the vehicle and opened fire, injuring two New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers. The officers, both now in stable condition, returned fire and fatally wounded the suspect.
Images of the SUV after the incident have drawn attention to a flagpole mounted on the back of the vehicle, which appeared to be wrapped with a metallic gray jacket. Earlier footage from the same morning suggests a black flag was attached to the pole before the attack. Authorities are investigating whether the pole and associated objects were present prior to or added after the incident.
The suspect’s actions have been described by officials as “very intentional,” indicating premeditation. Investigators are working to uncover the motive and determine if the suspect acted alone.
Adding to the tension, an improvised explosive device (IED) was discovered near the scene. At approximately 8:30 a.m., a controlled detonation was conducted by the bomb squad to neutralize the device.
During a briefing, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled the attack a “terrorist act” and confirmed discussions with the White House about the incident. The FBI has since taken over the investigation and formally classified the event as an act of terrorism.
The identity of the suspect remains undisclosed as authorities analyze evidence, including the SUV, the mysterious flagpole, and the IED.
Officials have called for public vigilance and urged anyone with information to come forward. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and more details emerge about the events that led to this senseless tragedy.
