admin
The truck that was driven into a crowd in New Orleans had been privately rented in Texas before being driven up to Louisiana ahead of New Year’s Eve.
The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning had been hired through Turo, a peer-to-peer online marketplace that allows customers to rent cars from other users.
Newsweek has reached out to Turo via email for comment.
AP/Gerald Herbert
Why It Matters
The electric truck was used as a weapon to mow down crowds of revelers along Bourbon Street in the early hours of New Year’s Day. At least 10 were killed and more than 30 were injured.
The vehicle has been described as the “ideal weapon” for such an attack, as it is heavy, powerful, and silent.
What We Know
The electric truck was purchased from Mac Haik Ford Pasadena in Pasadena, Texas, for $70,303 in August.
It had not been in any accidents until last night, according to records.
The dealership declined to comment about the truck or its purchaser, but a manager did tell Newsweek that the authorities had not been in touch.
It was listed for rent of Turo over the summer.
When Newsweek attempted to book the truck, which was still being advertised on Turo, we were told that it “has been an in accident” and we were asked to cancel our reservation.
The website has since been updated to list the vehicle as “currently disabled.”
The truck’s owner declined to comment and hung up once asked about the vehicle.
Scott Olson/Getty
What people are saying
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a press conference on Wednesday: “This abhorrent attack is being investigated by the FBI as an act of terrorism. Our hearts break for the families of those whose lives were lost and our prayers are with those recovering from injuries they suffered. We are grateful to the first responders for their bravery and urge the public to be vigilant.”
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick told reporters on Wednesday morning: “This man was trying to run over as many people as he could.”
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, on X, formerly Twitter: “A horrific act of violence took place on Bourbon Street earlier this morning. Please join Sharon and I in praying for all the victims and first responders on scene. I urge all near the scene to avoid the area.”
What Happens Next
Law enforcement and government officials are holding a press conference to provide further details about the incident and their investigation.
Bourbon Street in New Orleans remains closed as the FBI continues its investigation.
Anyone with information that might assist is asked to contact the FBI’s New Orleans Bureau by calling (504) 816-3000 or by emailing [email protected].
