Tragedy struck New Orleans’ famed Bourbon Street early New Year’s Day when a vehicle drove into a large crowd, killing at least 10 people and injuring 30 others, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred around 3:15am local time at the intersection of Bourbon and Iberville Streets in the French Quarter, a popular nightlife destination, according to WGNO-TV.
New Orleans city officials reported that 30 injured individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment, while 10 fatalities were confirmed.
NOLA Ready, the city’s emergency preparedness agency, described the situation as a mass casualty incident. “The 8th District is currently working a mass casualty incident involving a vehicle that drove into a large crowd on Canal and Bourbon Street,” the agency stated on its website.
The tragic event unfolded during New Year’s Eve celebrations, which drew thousands of revellers to the French Quarter each year.
An online video stream from the scene showed police officers cordoning off the area, which was typically bustling with music, food, and celebration during the holiday season.
Authorities were yet to release details about the driver or the circumstances leading to the incident. Investigations were ongoing as the city grappled with the aftermath of the devastating event.
