ALWAGHT- At least 10 people lost their lives and 30 others were injured when a vehicle plowed into a crowd celebrating New Year’s on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, officials reported early Wednesday.
The tragic incident on Canal and Bourbon Street unfolded in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, a vibrant area popular with tourists and locals alike. NOLA Ready, the city’s emergency response team, immediately issued a warning on X (formerly Twitter), urging people to steer clear of the area due to the ongoing emergency.
The timing of the incident has drawn significant attention, as it occurred on the eve of a highly anticipated event—the Sugar Bowl. This annual college football showdown, this year featuring the University of Georgia and Notre Dame, brings thousands of fans and visitors to the city, adding to the festive atmosphere of New Year’s celebrations. The combination of holiday revelry and sports tourism likely contributed to the high number of people present in the area at the time.
Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, treating the injured and securing the area. Local authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and whether it was intentional or accidental. The incident has cast a somber shadow over what is usually a celebratory time in New Orleans, known for its lively culture and community spirit.