Two police officers who were shot by a man authorities said attempted to “run over as many people as he possibly could” during New Year’s festivities on New Orleans’ famous Bourbon Street are now in stable condition, law enforcement officials confirmed in a press conference on Wednesday. Ten people have been confirmed dead, with at least 35 others injured following the incident on January 1st when a truck plowed into crowds of New Year’s revelers down Bourbon Street at a high speed. The suspect was subsequently killed after exchanging gunfire with the police around 3:15 a.m. local time, as reported by the New Orleans Police Department.
During a press conference on Wednesday morning, Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick described the situation as “complex and serious,” mentioning that the suspect “fired on our officers from his vehicle when he crashed his vehicle.” Kirkpatrick stated, “Two of our officers have been shot. They are stable, and we will provide updates on their condition.” She further emphasized, “We had over 300 officers out here, and due to the deliberate intentions of this perpetrator who bypassed our barricades to carry out this act, he was determined to cause the devastation and harm he inflicted.”
Authorities announced that the FBI would be assuming control of the investigation and clarified that this incident is not classified as a terrorist event. Efforts are underway to determine whether the suspect had any intentions to use improvised explosive devices during the incident. Alethea Duncan, assistant special agent in charge for the FBI’s New Orleans office, stated during the press conference, “This is not a terrorist event. At this moment, improvised explosive devices were discovered, and we are in the process of verifying their viability.”
Kirkpatrick addressed the upcoming Sugar Bowl scheduled for January 1st at the New Orleans Super Dome, ensuring that the event would proceed as planned. She expressed, “There’s much to enjoy about New Orleans, and we are committed to ensuring that our routes and the Super Dome are secure today for the game. Despite this tragic event, we extend our condolences to everyone in our community, but we encourage you to proceed with your day. As we advise, please avoid Bourbon Street.”
The New Orleans Police Department has confirmed that the suspect drove into crowds on Bourbon Street in an intentional act of violence, resulting in casualties and injuries. The gravity of the situation prompted the involvement of over 300 officers to manage the aftermath of the incident. The suspect’s aggressive behavior towards law enforcement led to a fatal confrontation, culminating in his demise during the early hours of New Year’s Day.
The FBI’s assumption of the investigation aims to ascertain the motives behind the suspect’s actions and evaluate any potential threats posed by the improvised explosive devices discovered at the scene. Authorities seek to provide a comprehensive response to ensure public safety and address the aftermath of the tragic event on Bourbon Street.
In light of the incident, the community is urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement efforts to maintain security in New Orleans.
