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 10 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.
🚨#BREAKING: A major mass casualty event has been declared after numerous people were killed when a pick up truck plowed into a crowd followed by gunfire leaving dozens more injured⁰⁰📌#NewOrleans l #Louisiana
Currently, there is a significant emergency response as officials… pic.twitter.com/LLHdauALdw
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) January 1, 2025
“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.
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.
Authorities, including the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), are actively investigating the incident. A police spokesperson told CBS News that initial reports indicate a vehicle intentionally plowed into a group of people. While the number of injuries and fatalities has been confirmed by NOLA Ready, the full details surrounding the driver’s motive and actions are still emerging.
Public safety officials have cordoned off the area, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
As emergency services continue to respond, authorities urge the public to stay away from the affected area and follow official updates.
This is a developing story, and additional details will be shared as they emerge.
