The driver of a pickup truck rammed into a crowd of people before getting out and opening fire at police, witnesses have said
At least 15 people have been killed and dozens more injured after an SUV ran into a crowd celebrating New Year in New Orleans, Louisiana, with authorities investigating it as “an act of terrorism.”
The incident occurred in the city’s French Quarter at around 3:15 am local time, WGNO said on Wednesday. The area, which has numerous bars and restaurants, is popular with tourists.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry described what happened as “a horrific act of violence,” and urged the public to avoid the area. New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) chief Anne Kirkpatrick told reporters that the attacker drove down Bourbon Street with the “clear intent” of causing ”carnage.”
President Joe Biden stated that hours before the New Orleans terror attack, the suspect posted videos suggesting he was “inspired” by Islamic State (IS, ISIS) terrorist group.
The attack took place as New Orleans is preparing to host the Sugar Bowl on Wednesday night. The iconic college football game, which has been played in the city annually since 1935, gathers thousands of fans from around the US. This year, the University of Georgia and University of Notre Dame will compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals.
