Deadly Attack Rocks New Orleans: FBI Leads Investigation, City Vows to Enhance Security

NEW ORLEANS — A deadly attack early Wednesday morning on Bourbon Street has left at least 10 dead and dozens injured, prompting an intensified investigation led by the FBI, with city officials vowing to enhance security in the French Quarter.

The attack occurred in the heart of New Orleans' tourism district, where Bourbon Street remains closed as authorities work to gather evidence. "Bourbon Street will remain closed until the FBI determines it is no longer an active crime scene," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. Local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and state police, are involved in the investigation.

National Guard Deployed to Secure City Amid Investigation
To bolster security as the investigation continues, the state has called in additional resources, including a military police unit from the National Guard. Governor Jeff Landry assured the public that these National Guard troops are local citizens brought in to support local law enforcement and to ensure safety during the investigation and as preparations for the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras begin. "We’re securing the city, not just for today, but for the large events coming up," Landry said.

Security Failures and Malfunctioning Bollards
One of the key issues raised during a press conference following the attack was the malfunctioning bollards along Bourbon Street, which are designed to prevent vehicles from driving into pedestrian areas. These bollards were part of an ongoing infrastructure project aimed at improving security before the Super Bowl, but the work had not been completed.

Captain Leon Roberts of the NOPD's 8th District explained that the assailant was able to drive around the security measures. "The terrorist drove onto the sidewalk behind the police car to access the 100 block of Bourbon Street," Roberts said. Despite efforts to secure the area with barricades, patrol cars, and strategically placed barriers, the attacker managed to bypass these obstacles, raising questions about the system's effectiveness.

New Orleans officials have promised that the bollard system will be completed before the Super Bowl and that additional security measures will be implemented. "We recognize where the gaps were, and we’re going to fix them," said Governor Landry.

IED Threats and Ongoing Safety Measures
Two possible improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered in separate locations during the investigation. While the FBI has confirmed that both devices were neutralized without incident, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant. "We conducted a thorough sweep of the area and have found no additional threats," said Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s local office. "If the public sees something suspicious, please report it immediately."

Cantrell urged residents and tourists to remain cautious, asking them to report any suspicious activity to local authorities. "We want people to feel safe, but we also need their help to ensure that we don’t miss anything," she said.

Investigation Progress and Suspect Background
The FBI has yet to fully identify the suspect but confirmed that he was an Army veteran with a criminal history. "We’re working through the suspect's background, and we’re continuing to follow up on all leads," said Cantrell. The FBI has also issued a call for anyone with information on the suspect or the events leading up to the attack to contact authorities. "If anyone had interaction with the deceased subject in the 72 hours before the attack, we encourage them to come forward," Cantrell said.

City Officials Address Infrastructure Weaknesses
Despite the tragedy, city leaders are committed to addressing any security deficiencies. "We recognize the problem and we’re going to fix it," Mayor Cantrell said. "This will be a top priority as we head into the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras, and we are committed to improving public safety."

Cantrell emphasized that security improvements, including the completion of the bollard upgrades, would be in place before the Super Bowl, with a permanent solution to security gaps being prioritized. "We are not going to ignore our vulnerabilities. We will be transparent about them and address them with long-term solutions."

Public Safety for Upcoming Events
As the investigation unfolds, officials are working to ensure safety measures are in place for the upcoming Sugar Bowl, Super Bowl, and Mardi Gras celebrations. The city is taking extra precautions with the National Guard’s presence and an increased police presence in the French Quarter. "We are doing everything we can to make sure New Orleans is a safe place for everyone," said Landry.

Contact Information
The FBI is asking for any witnesses or individuals with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted through the FBI’s official tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or online via the FBI’s tip submission page on their website. Additionally, tips can be submitted through the New Orleans Police Department's website or by calling the NOPD.

As New Orleans continues to grapple with the aftermath of the attack, officials remain focused on securing the city and restoring confidence in public safety, making efforts to prepare for large-scale events while addressing vulnerabilities.