In the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans lies 12 blocks of history. This is Bourbon Street.
Located in one of the oldest cities in America, Bourbon Street is described as nocturnal and noisy, lit by lights and fueled by nightlife and culture. Nearly 17 million people visit the city each year, and it’s no shock why. Bourbon Street contains the oldest bar in the country, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, as well as jazz clubs and dining options in various restaurants.
Streets in New Orleans date back to the city’s founding in 1718, and ever since, its history has stayed booming, hearing jazz music around every corner, containing an electric art scene and the influence of French, Spanish, and African American culture.
Even with such rich history and tourism came an unfortunate tragedy. The New Year’s celebration on Bourbon Street is a highly anticipated event where many come together for drinks and share meals until the fireworks start.
On Dec. 31 during the New Year’s celebration on the street, a Ford pickup truck, driven by 42-year-old Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar, intentionally drove into the crowd. It only took Jabbar 14 seconds to plow his truck down three blocks of Bourbon Street. Dozens were injured and 15 were killed.
The FBI claimed this was an act of terrorism. Jabbar had posted to social media hours prior, expressing his desire to kill and his inspiration from ISIS, an Islamic group that has inspired and conducted terrorist attacks.
Through police cars and barriers, Jabbar managed to drive through and get around to conduct the attack. He drove around the barriers and onto sidewalks. New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said, “[Jabbar] was trying to run over as many people as he could.”
Jabbar exited the car, facing open fire by police. He died after a shootout with three police officers. Two officers were hit by the gunfire and treated later at the hospital. Jabbar was declared dead at the scene.
Along with an ISIS flag flying from the rear bumper, other weapons were found inside the rented vehicle, such as explosive devices, an AR-15 style weapon and body armor on Jabbar at the time of the attack. The FBI found two functional IEDs. There is surveillance of Jabbar placing said devices around the area. Police have been on high alert scoping out anything suspicious.
Law enforcement officials have vowed to combat violence and ensure safety in future public events on Bourbon Street and in New Orleans. This attack will highly deter tourism in both New Orleans and Bourbon Street.
