Fatal New Year’s Day Crash on Bourbon Street Investigated as Terrorism
A tragic incident shook New Orleans in the early hours of January 1, 2025, when a vehicle plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street at Canal Street, leaving 10 people dead and more than 30 injured. The FBI has taken over the investigation, now calling it an act of terrorism.
Around 3:17 AM, a Ford F-150 Lightning with Texas plates drove into a group of pedestrians celebrating New Year’s Eve, eventually crashing on Bourbon Street. Explosive devices were reportedly found nearby, leading to hotel evacuations and controlled detonations.
After the crash, the driver of the vehicle, who hasn’t been identified yet, reportedly opened fire on police officers. Officers returned fire, killing the suspect at the scene. Two NOPD officers were hurt in the exchange and taken to the hospital, where they’re said to be in stable condition.
Officials confirmed that 10 people tragically lost their lives at the scene. Thirty-five others were rushed to hospitals, but their current conditions haven’t been released.
The truck was traced back to a Houston-based owner who rented it out through the Turo app. Surveillance footage shows the vehicle in north Harris County on December 31, with sightings near Treaschwig Road and Aldine Westfield Road before it was last seen heading east on I-10 toward New Orleans.
The FBI is treating this as an act of terrorism. Investigators are working to piece together the suspect’s identity and possible motives.
If you know anything that could help, reach out to the FBI’s New Orleans Bureau at (504) 816-3000 or email tips@fbi.gov.
If you’re looking for loved ones who might’ve been in the area, you’re encouraged to call 311 instead of 911 for assistance.
This info is still unfolding, and more details will be shared as they come in.
