Edwin Buggage Editor-in-Chief Data News Weekly
Tragedy Strikes on Bourbon Street
As revelers brought in the New Year in New Orleans during the early hours of January 1, 2025, a tragic terrorist attack unfolded in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant from Texas, drove a rented pickup truck into crowds on Bourbon Street during New Year’s Eve celebrations, resulting in 14 fatalities and injuring at least 35 others.
During this despicable act, Jabbar exited the rented vehicle opening fire on responding officers, who fatally shot him. During the investigation, it was later discovered that explosive devices (IEDs) were present in coolers near the scene, containing a rare explosive compound not previously used in terrorist attacks in the U.S. or Europe. With many theories surfacing in the ongoing investigation, it left City leaders, who are working with state and federal leaders regarding how to prevent future terror attacks in the French Quarter and in the City of New Orleans.
President Biden Visits New Orleans
On Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden visited New Orleans in the wake of the tragedy, visiting with families and attending an Interfaith Prayer Service remembering the 14 victims killed.
Providing words of comfort, he said, “We stand with and grieve with you. New Orleans, you are not alone. I am paying homage to those who lost their lives. I am directing my team to every local, state, and national resource available. I support all the people as they heal New Orleans. I define strength and resilience. People get back up; that is the spirit of America as well.”
Local Leaders Speak Out Against Hate and Violence
Many local, state, and faith leaders have spoken out. “At a time when we should be celebrating life and hope as we welcome the New Year, we are mourning an unthinkable tragedy. This act of terrorism, taking 14 innocent lives, is beyond devastating. My prayers are with the victim’s families and all those impacted,” State Senator Royce Duplessis told Data News Weekly.
“President Biden’s visit to New Orleans serves as an important reminder that the nation mourns with us, and we must honor those innocent lives lost by demanding meaningful change. During this time of grief, we must remain proactive, vigilant, and united against hate and violence. Rest assured, this terrorist attack will not define our new year and will not define New Orleans.”
Thanking Law Enforcement and the Importance of Unity Moving Forward
Crediting the efforts of various law enforcement agencies and making a call for unity New Orleans District Attorney told Data News Weekly, “The only reason there wasn’t a greater loss of life was because of the quick work of the New Orleans Police Department. The responding officers are heroes and saved countless lives.”
“But not only was it an attack on our home, it was an attack on our country and our way of life. The attacker didn’t just go after Democrats or Republicans. They preyed on Americans and our freedom. Our President’s visit today makes that abundantly clear. This country has become divided and polarized in recent years. I pray we seize this moment to strengthen our union. This is a job for us all. All people of this country, of all faiths and creeds, must be part of that effort.”
Questions of Safety in the City of New Orleans
This tragic event has left many considering safety surrounding the large-scale events in the City of New Orleans. Pastor Thomas Watson of Watson Memorial, who took part in a Prayer Vigil with leading pastors across the City says this is important but noted that it is also important to consider safety for all citizens in neighborhoods across the City.
“It is important to know that we must be strategic about safety in our entire City. Yes, the French Quarter is important as the economic engine for our City and state, but some of the people who work there go to unsafe neighborhoods on a daily basis. Let’s broaden our view and planning for safety against terrorist and violent activity throughout our entire beloved communities. I personally pray for the families who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured and hospitalized.”
New Orleans Resilience, Solutions, and Moving Forward Together
New Orleans City Councilman of District E Oliver Thomas echoed the well wishes and prayers of other City leaders. Speaking to Data News Weekly, he stated with an eye to the future an optimistic and holistic view of solutions that will need all stakeholders’ involvement to be successful.
“Moving forward we need to review whatever weaknesses we had; how do we fill in the gaps and whatever mistakes we made will never happen again. That we will ensure one of the best special event cities in the world is one of the safest possible. Yes, in New Orleans, we are strong, honor our traditions, and be a gateway for the world most unique cities we will continue to be the place that will welcome people from around the world.”
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