Updates: At least 10 dead in US as vehicle crashes into New Orleans crowd
What Happened
On Wednesday morning, a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd celebrating New Year’s Day at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets in New Orleans’ French Quarter and opened fire.
At least 10 people were killed, and 35 others injured, according to local authorities. The driver exited the vehicle after the crash and fired at police, injuring two officers who are in stable condition.
Law enforcement officials confirmed the suspect was killed during a shootout with police at the scene.
The FBI is investigating the incident as an “act of terrorism.”
Authorities have not identified the suspect, who was confirmed dead at the scene.
Biden Condemns the Attack
President Joe Biden stated the US will not tolerate attacks on its people after the New Orleans incident.
“There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on our nation’s communities,” Biden said in a statement.
Biden has also called New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell to offer “full federal support” and has been briefed by FBI and Homeland Security officials on what the White House called a “horrific” attack.
FBI Investigation
The FBI confirmed it is investigating the crash as an act of terrorism.
“The FBI is the lead investigative agency, and we are working with our partners to investigate this as an act of terrorism,” the FBI stated.
It remains unclear what specific evidence the FBI is using to classify the case as terrorism.
Reactions
US Speaker of the House Mike Johnson condemned the attack, calling it a “vicious attack on innocent people.”
“The vicious attack on innocent people celebrating the New Year in New Orleans early this morning was an act of pure evil, and justice must be swift for anyone who was involved,” Johnson wrote on X.
He urged people to join in prayers for the victims, their families, and the first responders.
College Football Game to ProceedDespite the tragic events, the Sugar Bowl College Football quarterfinal will proceed as scheduled at the Superdome stadium in New Orleans, CNN reports.
Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick assured the public that officials would ensure the safety of routes and the stadium for the game.
In a statement, the game’s organizers expressed their condolences:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We are devastated by the terrible events.”
Credit: Al Jazeera
