The New Year in New Orleans began tragically when a driver deliberately barreled down Bourbon Street in a pickup truck, aiming to run over as many people as possible. At least 10 people were killed, and more than 30 others were injured in the early morning incident. The attack occurred at approximately 3:17 a.m. on January 1, 2025, as revelers were celebrating the arrival of the new year.
The driver, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, entered Bourbon Street at the Canal Street intersection, where he sped through the area, striking multiple people before crashing into a construction vehicle on the 300 block of Bourbon Street. The truck was reportedly adorned with an ISIS flag, and Jabbar fired a gun at responding officers, injuring two of them. In response, police returned fire, killing the suspect. The officers who were injured are reported to be in stable condition.
Officials described the incident as a deliberate and violent act. New Orleans police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that the driver was “hellbent” on causing destruction, emphasizing that the behavior was intentional and aimed at inflicting harm. The FBI, which is leading the investigation, confirmed that the suspect’s vehicle contained improvised explosive devices. Although a motive has not been established, the FBI is treating the incident as an act of terrorism.
The tragedy unfolded in the heart of one of New Orleans’ most iconic areas, which was bustling with activity as people celebrated the arrival of the new year. Jim and Nicole Mowrer, visitors from Iowa, were in the vicinity when they witnessed the horrifying scene. They described hearing the truck’s engine revving and crashing noises before seeing it speed through a barricade. Gunshots were fired, and they later came across several people who had been struck by the vehicle. They did what they could to help before leaving the area.
The victims’ identities have not been fully released, and the investigation is ongoing. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed his condolences, urging people to pray for the victims and first responders involved in the crisis. Authorities have not yet revealed further details about the suspect, and the investigation into the motive continues.
This violent attack has left a community in shock, with many grappling with the scale of the tragedy. As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials are working to understand the full scope of the incident and the reasons behind such a devastating act of violence. The FBI’s involvement underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating this case, particularly given the suspect’s apparent connection to extremist symbols and the presence of explosives. The impact of this attack on both the victims and the city of New Orleans will be felt for a long time to come.
