The New Orleans Police Department responded to a fatal traffic crash that occurred during the early hours Wednesday at the intersection of Bourbon and Canal streets that has resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, including the suspected perpetrator. The attacker was identified as U.S. Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar.
At about 3:17 a.m., multiple law enforcement officers responded to a report of a vehicle having driven into a crowd of pedestrians on Bourbon Street. Multiple people were reportedly struck before the vehicle crashed.
Upon further investigation, at least 15 victims were declared killed. Dozens of other victims suffered injuries in the incident. Those injured were transported to multiple local and area hospitals via EMS for treatment. No updates are currently available on these victims’ conditions.
After the vehicle came to a stop, the suspect reportedly opened fire on responding officers, who returned fire. The victim was struck and subsequently declared deceased on the scene. Further information on the suspect is not currently available for release.
Two NOPD officers were struck and injured in the exchange. Both were transported via EMS to a local hospital and were last listed in stable condition.
The public is urged to avoid Bourbon Street north from Canal to Dumaine Streets and also east to Royal Street to west to Dauphine Street until further notice as this investigation is ongoing.
