ABC News - New Orleans suspect killed after ramming vehicle into Bourbon Street crowd, officials say
On New Year's Day, a pickup truck drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, killing 10 people and injuring dozens. The driver bypassed barriers and targeted tourists and locals celebrating the New Year. After stopping, the driver fired at police officers, who returned fire and killed him. Improvised explosive devices were found in the vehicle, leading authorities to label the incident as terrorism. The FBI is investigating the driver's motives, considering potential influences from online propaganda or foreign terror groups. Witnesses described the chaos and devastation, with bodies strewn across the street and emergency services responding to the scene. The investigation is complex, involving vehicle ramming, gunfire, and potential explosives, with authorities working to understand the suspect's background and motivations.
Key Points:
- 10 people killed and dozens injured in a vehicle attack on Bourbon Street, New Orleans.
- The driver bypassed barriers and intentionally targeted a crowd, later firing at police.
- Improvised explosive devices were found in the vehicle, prompting a terrorism investigation.
- The FBI is examining the suspect's background and potential motives, including online influences.
- Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and devastating, with emergency services responding swiftly.
Details:
1. 🚨 Tragic Incident on Bourbon Street
- At least 10 people are dead after a pickup truck plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street.
- The incident occurred just after 3:15 AM on New Year's Day.
- A small white pickup truck drove around barriers designed to prevent vehicle ramming attacks.
- The vehicle sped up and hit a crowd of tourists and local residents celebrating the New Year.
- Emergency services responded swiftly, with multiple ambulances and police units arriving at the scene within minutes.
- Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on the driver's motives and state of mind.
- Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many people fleeing in panic.
- Officials have urged anyone with information to come forward to aid the investigation.
- The local community is in shock, with many vigils being held in memory of the victims.
2. 🚔 Police Response and Investigation
2.1. Immediate Police Response
2.2. Ongoing Investigation
3. 🕵️ Suspect's Motive and Terrorism Concerns
- The suspect was described as 'hellbent' on causing harm, indicating a strong intent to inflict damage.
- The incident occurred at 3:15 a.m. local time during a significant public event, suggesting an aim to maximize impact.
- Authorities quickly classified the act as terrorism and handed the investigation to the FBI, reflecting its seriousness.
- The classification as terrorism implies substantial evidence supporting a deliberate attack, despite the undisclosed motive.
- More than 300 police officers and an additional 300 from partner agencies were deployed, demonstrating a high level of preparedness and coordinated security effort.
4. 👥 Witness Accounts of the Chaos
4.1. Initial Incident and Police Response
4.2. Witness Observations and Public Reaction
4.3. Casualties and Restricted Assistance
5. 🔍 Ongoing FBI Investigation
- A full-size F-150 4x4 truck was involved in a catastrophic incident resulting in severe injuries and fatalities, including the deaths of a girl and a mother, and a man who was severely injured.
- The New Orleans Police Department initially considered the incident as a potential act of terrorism, but the FBI has not confirmed this classification pending further investigation.
- The FBI's investigation is focused on uncovering the motive behind the attack, analyzing the truck's history, the owner's background, and the driver's recent activities and online footprint.
- Potential motives being explored include grievances towards the government, America, or personal issues at work.
- There is an increased threat level due to geopolitical tensions, particularly linked to jihadist sentiments following violence in the Middle East, such as conflicts involving Israel in Gaza and Lebanon.