A New Year's celebration in New Orleans turned tragic early Wednesday morning when a vehicle plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street, leaving 10 dead and over 30 injured. The FBI has taken over the investigation, treating the incident as an act of terrorism.
The attack occurred around 3 a.m., as a suspect intentionally drove into a group of revelers, according to New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick. The driver, described as exhibiting "very intentional behavior," was attempting to inflict maximum harm. Following the vehicle ramming, the suspect engaged in gunfire with police officers, injuring two, both of whom are now in stable condition.
Subsequently, authorities discovered an improvised explosive device at the scene, further prompting the FBI's involvement. The suspect has been identified by law enforcement sources as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar, who was reportedly found with an ISIS flag in his vehicle. However, this detail has not been independently confirmed by all sources.
The suspect is now deceased following the confrontation with law enforcement, according to the FBI. Weapons recovered at the scene include a handgun and an AR-style rifle. Law enforcement officials are working diligently to determine the motive behind this horrific attack.
Most of the injured have been transported to local hospitals, including University Medical Center, Touro Hospital, and others. Local authorities are urging the public to avoid the Bourbon Street area. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has expressed his condolences and urged prayers for the victims and first responders, also confirming law enforcements call to avoid the area. The investigation is ongoing as authorities piece together the events that transpired.
