A New Year’s celebration turned into a scene of unspeakable carnage as a pickup truck barreled through a crowd on New Orleans’ Bourbon Street, leaving 10 dead and dozens injured in what authorities are investigating as a possible terrorist attack.
A Night of Horror Unfolds
The attack occurred just after midnight, with Bourbon Street, known for its vibrant nightlife, packed with revelers welcoming 2025. Witnesses described the chaotic scene as a white pickup truck smashed through barriers and plowed into the crowd, triggering panic and terror.
“We were in a bar when people started running and diving under tables like it was an active shooter drill,” said Whit Davis, who was celebrating with friends. “When we finally got out, there were dead and injured bodies everywhere. Everyone was just in shock.”
Jim and Nicole Mowrer, who were on the street, watched in horror as the truck breached the barriers and accelerated toward pedestrians. “We hid in an alcove as gunshots rang out,” said Nicole. “When we came out, several people who had been hit were lying there. We tried to help, but they were already gone.”
Witness Accounts and Aftermath
A hotel worker near the scene told CBS News he heard the chaos unfold outside. “When I looked out, I saw bodies on the ground and the truck speeding away. It was horrific,” he said. “We brought some injured people into the hotel to help, but there was only so much we could do.”
The driver’s rampage came to a halt when the truck crashed further up the street. The suspect then opened fire on responding officers, injuring two before being fatally shot by police. The injured officers are reported to be in stable condition.
An Act of Terror?
The FBI confirmed it is investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism after discovering an improvised explosive device at the scene. “We are working to determine whether the device was viable,” said FBI Special Agent Althea Duncan, who is leading the investigation.
New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick described the attack as deliberate and calculated. “This individual was hell-bent on creating carnage and chaos,” she said during a morning press conference. The driver’s identity and motive remain under investigation.
The Aftermath of Devastation
Images from the scene show a deserted Bourbon Street, cordoned off with bodies lying on the pavement. Emergency services worked through the night to assist the injured and secure the area. The attack has left a city already famed for resilience reeling.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry issued a statement condemning the violence: “A horrific act of violence has shattered the heart of New Orleans. Sharon and I are praying for the victims and first responders who faced unimaginable horror.”
A City Mourns
As New Orleans begins to process the tragedy, the French Quarter’s spirit of celebration has been replaced with grief and questions. For now, the city mourns the lives lost in what will be remembered as one of its darkest New Year’s Days.