VOA News | Wednesday, January 1, 2025 
FBI investigating deadly New Orleans truck attack as ‘act of terrorism’

A driver crashed a pickup truck into a crowd celebrating New Year’s early Wednesday in New Orleans, Louisiana, and opened fire, killing 15 people and injuring at least 30. The FBI said it was investigating the attack as an act of terrorism and did not believe the driver acted alone. Investigators found multiple explosive devices in the French Quarter, The Associated Press reported, citing a Louisiana State Police intelligence bulletin. Among the devices were two pipe bombs hidden inside coolers and wired to detonate remotely, the bulletin said. U.S. President Joe Biden updated the nation on the investigation Wednesday night. “The killer was an American citizen born in Texas. He served in the United States Army in active duty for many years. He also served in the Army Reserve until a few years ago,” Biden said. Hours before the attack, the suspect indicated in videos posted on social media that the attack was inspired by the Islamic State terror group. “The law enforcement and intelligence community are continuing to look for any connections, associations or co-conspirators. We have nothing additional reported at this time. The investigation is continuing to be active, and no one should jump to conclusions,” the president added. “So many people around the world love New Orleans because of its history, its culture, and above all, its people,” Biden said. “So I know while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated. It always will shine forth.” – Read more