At least ten people were killed and 26 injured on Bourbon Street in New Orleans early on Sunday morning after a pickup truck intentionally plowed through a crowd celebrating the New Year.
Federal officials said that the suspect is believed to be dead after engaging with police officers. Two officers were shot and are in stable condition.
The majority of the victims appear to be locals rather than tourists.
“This man was trying to run over as many people as he possibly could,” said police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick.
The FBI is investigating.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge for New Orleans Alethea Duncan said the incident “is not a terrorist event.” Authorities were working on confirming whether an improvised explosive device that was found was viable, Duncan said.
Witness statements:
- “All I seen was a truck slamming into everyone on the left side of Bourbon sidewalk,” said Kevin Garcia, 22, speaking to CNN shortly after the incident. “A body came flying at me,” he said, adding that he also heard gunshots being fired.
- “When they finally let us out of the club, police waved us where to walk and were telling us to get out of the area fast. I saw a few dead bodies they couldn’t even cover up and tons of people receiving first aid,” said 22-year-old Whit Davis from Shreveport, who was at a nightclub.
The Sugar Bowl will go on.
