Truck Plows Into Crowd on Bourbon Street, Leaving 10 Dead in New Orleans
A tragic incident in New Orleans sees at least 10 dead and many injured after a truck drove into a New Year’s crowd on Bourbon Street
New Orleans, USA, Bourbon Street, Truck Attack, New Year’s Eve, Terrorism
New Orleans: Early on January 1, 2025, a pickup truck crashed into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing at least 10 people and injuring around 35 others. It was a chaotic scene as people celebrated the New Year.
The driver, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar from Texas, was shot and killed by police after he opened fire. Two officers were also injured in the exchange.
Inside the truck, authorities found weapons and a potential explosive device, along with an ISIS flag. It’s believed Jabbar may not have acted alone, and the FBI is investigating possible accomplices.
Witnesses said the truck sped around a police barricade and traveled three blocks before hitting a lift vehicle. The police chief described the driver as determined to cause harm.
Among the deceased was 18-year-old Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux from Gulfport, Mississippi, who was celebrating with friends. The tragedy has left many in shock.
Interestingly, protective steel bollards meant to keep vehicles off Bourbon Street were not deployed, as they are currently being replaced. This has raised questions about safety measures in place.
The FBI is treating this as a potential act of terrorism, and bomb squad teams have been seen in the area. Controlled detonations were conducted to safely remove any other explosive threats.
Local leaders, including U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts, condemned the attack, calling it evil and horrific. The community is coming together to support the victims and their families.
As the investigation continues, parts of Bourbon Street remain closed, and some hotels have been evacuated. The public is advised to stay away from the area.
New Orleans is also hosting college football fans for the Sugar Bowl, but the game has been postponed due to the incident. A student from the University of Georgia was reported critically injured.
City officials are in contact with state and federal authorities, and the community is rallying to support those affected. This is a developing story, and updates will follow.