A devastating incident unfolded in New Orleans early on New Year’s Day when a vehicle plowed into a crowd in the French Quarter, killing multiple people and injuring dozens.
According to the city’s emergency information service, NOLA Ready, at least 12 people have been confirmed dead, and 30 others were injured in the horrific event. The crash occurred at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets, a bustling area in the heart of New Orleans known for its vibrant nightlife and frequent tourist activity.
According to an ABC News report, the suspect is reportedly dead at the scene of the incident. Suspect killed in shootout with police after intentionally ramming vehicle into crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, police say – ABC13 Houston
The news outlet reported that the suspect was killed after the police opened fire after the driver of the vehicle shot at officers.
🚨#BREAKING: Driver in New Orleans ramming attack is dead
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“The 8th District is currently working a mass casualty incident involving a vehicle that drove into a large crowd on Canal and Bourbon Street,” NOLA Ready reported. “There are 30 injured patients that have been transported by NOEMS and 10 fatalities.”
The tragedy struck around 3:15 a.m., just as New Year’s Eve celebrations in the French Quarter were winding down. WGNO reported that a vehicle drove into pedestrians at high speed, causing chaos and devastation.
Here is more footage after the crash in New Orleans.
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Louisiana Governor has addressed the crash and called it “Horrific act of violence” in a message on X (formerly known as Twitter).
BREAKING: Louisiana Governor is calling the New Orleans vehicle ramming attack and gunfire a “horrific act of violence”.
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Witness accounts describe the driver exiting the vehicle after the crash and opening fire, prompting police to return fire. CBS News reporter Kati Weis relayed witness statements, but these details remain unverified as investigations continue.
U.S. Army veteran Jim Mower, who was on Bourbon Street with his wife, described the horrifying scene. Writing on X, he said:
“Was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans with my wife tonight about 20 minutes ago. SUV came down speeding and running people over. Mass casualty event, tried to [administer] first aid but most were dead. Estimate double-digit deaths.”
Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, closing off Bourbon Street and providing medical assistance to the injured.
The French Quarter, particularly Bourbon Street, is one of New Orleans’ most iconic and tourist-heavy areas. On New Year’s Eve, thousands of revelers gather to celebrate, making the area particularly crowded and vulnerable to such an attack.
This incident has not only claimed numerous lives but has also shaken a city known for its resilience and hospitality.
This is a developing story, and additional details will be shared as they emerge.
