A horrifying scene unfolded on Bourbon Street in New Orleans early Wednesday when a man intentionally drove a truck into a crowd, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. Witnesses described the white truck crashing into people at high speed, leaving a path of carnage and distraught onlookers. The driver died after exchanging gunfire with police. Visitors from Des Moines, Iowa, Jim and Nicole Mowrer, were in the French Quarter for New Year’s Day celebrations when they heard crashing noises and saw the truck slam through a barricade. They attempted to help wounded victims but found that many had already died.
The Mowrers estimated that the truck hit people only about a block away from where they had been walking. After witnessing the carnage, they sought cover and heard gunfire. The victims they came across had injuries from the truck impact, without any apparent gunshot wounds. Many were surrounded by emotional loved ones who seemed to know them. The suspect, who was struck by police fire and declared dead at the scene, appeared to be “hellbent on creating the carnage” according to Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick. The FBI is investigating the attack as an act of terrorism.
In a 2017 memo reviewed by CBS News, the city of New Orleans had acknowledged the risk of a mass casualty incident in the crowded French Quarter. The memo cited previous vehicle attacks in Nice, London, and New York City and outlined plans to establish a camera and surveillance program, a centralized command center, and increase police patrols in the area. The city was proactive in recognizing the potential dangers and putting measures in place to enhance security and response capabilities. Unfortunately, the attack still occurred, resulting in a devastating loss of life and injuries.
The Mowrers recall their experience of the horrifying incident, including the chaos that ensued after the truck plowed into the crowd. They describe the distressing scene of victims lying wounded and deceased, with emotional loved ones surrounding them. Despite their efforts to help, they were unable to save those who had been hit by the truck. The traumatic events left a lasting impact on all who witnessed it, with the Mowrers emphasizing the senseless violence and devastation caused by the attack.
As emergency responders arrived on the scene, the Mowrers decided to leave the area and allow authorities to handle the aftermath of the attack. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick described the suspect as someone intent on causing destruction and harm by running over as many people as possible. The suspect’s death at the hands of police marked the end of the violent rampage, but the investigation into the motive and circumstances of the attack as an act of terrorism continued. The city of New Orleans faces the aftermath of this tragic event, with the community coming together to support the victims and their families in the wake of the senseless act of violence.
