A New Year’s celebration on Bourbon Street in New Orleans turned into a scene of tragedy and chaos when a suspect drove a pickup truck into a crowd, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.

The horrifying attack occurred during the early hours of January 1, leaving the city shaken and under a heavy law enforcement presence.

During New Year’s celebrations, the suspect drove a pickup truck through a densely packed crowd on Bourbon Street.

After striking multiple people, the driver exited the vehicle and opened fire at police officers. Law enforcement returned fire, fatally shooting the suspect at the scene.

Police have confirmed at least 10 fatalities, with 35 additional people injured, including two police officers who sustained injuries during the shootout.

Victims are being treated at local hospitals, with several reported to be in critical condition.

The Mayor of New Orleans initially labeled the incident a “terrorist attack” during an early briefing, describing the suspect as being “hell-bent on creating carnage.” However, the FBI later clarified that the attack does not currently meet the criteria for a terrorist event.

The FBI has taken over the investigation and is working closely with local authorities to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the attack.

Officials have yet to release the suspect’s identity or provide details about their background.

A bomb squad was dispatched to the scene after reports of possible improvised explosive devices (IEDs) connected to the attack. Authorities have not confirmed whether the devices were viable, but the area remains under lockdown as a precautionary measure.

The attack has left the usually lively Bourbon Street in a state of shock, with streets cordoned off and a heavy police presence as investigators continue their work. Officials are urging the public to avoid the area while emergency responders secure the scene and assess the aftermath of the attack.

Authorities are piecing together the suspect’s actions and motives, urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. This remains a developing story, with updates to follow as more details become available.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous New Year’s celebration, leaving the city of New Orleans in mourning and determined to bring justice to the victims and their families.