At least fifteen people were killed and 30 injured after a car rammed into people celebrating the new year in New Orleans, a southern US city. According to police officials, a vehicle ploughed into a crowd on Bourbon Street in the city's French Quarter.
"Intentional attack"
The police official said that the attack was intentional and the suspect fired bullets at security officials. In a press conference on Wednesday morning, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell described the incident as a “terrorist attack" and urged the citizens to stay away from the site. According to NOLA Ready, the city’s emergency preparedness agency, they were responding to a mass casualty incident, including fatalities. NOLA Ready advised people to stay away from the area.
Notably, Bourbon Street, known for its vibrant bars and clubs, was packed with New Year’s revellers celebrating the arrival of 2025.
The incident came toward the end of New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans and hours before the kickoff of the AllState Bowl, a college football quarterfinal held in the city's Caesars Superdome, with thousands expected to be in attendance.
FBI found an explosive device
Meanwhile, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said they found an explosive device at the scene and agents are currently assessing the viability. However, the official refrains from providing additional details about the type and how it was planted.
