A pickup truck driven by a suspected terrorist ploughed into New Year’s Eve crowds on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, killing 15 people and injuring 35 others.
Authorities confirmed the attack on Wednesday.
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The incident, described by the FBI as an act of terrorism, took place in the French Quarter during one of the city’s busiest celebrations.
The driver, a 42-year-old Texas man and Army veteran, was killed in a firefight with police.
Authorities found an ISIS flag, weapons, and potential improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the vehicle.
The FBI is investigating possible links to terrorist organisations, saying the driver may not have acted alone.
Additional IEDs were also discovered nearby.
New Orleans Coroner Dr Dwight McKenna, said: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded in the French Quarter. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected.”
“As of now, 15 people are deceased. It will take several days to perform all autopsies. Once we complete the autopsies and talk with the next of kin, we will release the identifications of the victims.”
Victims include 37-year-old Reggie Hunter from Baton Rouge, who texted his family “Happy New Year” just hours before the attack.
Hunter, described by relatives as a loving father of two, suffered fatal internal injuries when the truck struck him.
His cousin, Shirell Robinson Jackson, said: “He was not a threat to anyone. He surely didn’t deserve this, none of the victims did.”
The Sugar Bowl, a major college football event set to take place less than a mile from the attack, was postponed by 24 hours for public safety.
Local and federal agencies, including Homeland Security, remain on high alert as investigations continue.
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