New Orleans authorities are responding to a tragic mass casualty incident that occurred in the heart of the city’s Bourbon Street area on the early morning of January 1, 2025. Initial reports suggest that a vehicle drove into a crowd of people celebrating New Year’s Eve, resulting in at least 10 fatalities and 30 injuries. The incident has cast a grim shadow over the festivities in one of the United States’ most popular tourist destinations.
A spokesperson for the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) confirmed that the vehicle plowed into pedestrians in the busy Bourbon Street area, confirming the number of casualties. The local emergency response agency, NOLA Ready, has since labeled the event a “mass casualty incident” and urged both locals and visitors to avoid the area around Canal and Bourbon Streets as authorities work to secure the scene.
Eyewitnesses shared harrowing accounts with CBS, claiming that the driver of the vehicle, after striking the crowd, reportedly exited the car and began firing a weapon. This led to an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and responding police officers. However, law enforcement has yet to officially confirm these details. Video footage from the scene, shared by WGNO-TV News reporter LBJ, shows multiple emergency response vehicles and medics tending to the injured.
As the investigation continues, authorities are providing updates to the public. The incident has overshadowed what is usually a celebratory time, as New Year’s Day festivities turn into a tragic event. Police are advising everyone to stay clear of the area to allow first responders to work efficiently.
Latest Updates:
- 07:02 AM EST: The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) is scheduled to hold a press conference at the 8th district station to provide further details on the situation. Reports indicate that after the crash, the driver allegedly exited the vehicle and opened fire before police returned fire.
- 06:56 AM EST: Videos captured the chaos unfolding on Bourbon Street after the vehicle crashed into the crowd. Emergency services, including ambulances and fire trucks, continue to arrive at the scene, providing critical care to the injured.
- 06:39 AM EST: The City of New Orleans has confirmed 10 deaths and 30 injuries following the crash. NOLA Ready issued a statement confirming the mass casualty event, stating that 30 individuals were transported to local hospitals by the New Orleans Emergency Medical Services (NOEMS).
