Reports indicate that at least 10 individuals lost their lives and more than 30 were injured when a vehicle crashed into a crowd in central New Orleans on Wednesday morning.
The event took place at approximately 3:15 am at the junction of Bourbon Street and Iberville, a location famous for its lively nightlife and dynamic culture.
The vehicle, said to be a truck, allegedly barreled into a crowd at high speed, and the driver reportedly got out and started shooting, according to news agency Reuters. According to witness reports shared by CBS News, police were involved in a gunfight with the suspect.
Patients are being taken to nearby hospitals.
Witness testimonies and social media updates indicate a significant emergency response at the location. Video recordings and images depict police vehicles, ambulances, and coroner’s office cars surrounding the intersection while officials attempt to evaluate the scale of the destruction.
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“Initial reports indicate a car may have ploughed into a group of people. While injuries are currently unconfirmed, there are reported fatalities,” Metro quoted the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) spokesperson as saying.
The precise number of casualties is still unknown as inquiries are in progress. It was reported that thousands gathered to ring in the New Year at the nearby Bourbon Street.
Police have requested that individuals refrain from traveling in the vicinity for the time being while emergency teams handle the situation.
