Bourbon Street Reopens to Smaller Crowds a Day After New Orleans Attack

 A strong law enforcement presence and heightened security measures were implemented in the French Quarter the day following the tragic deaths of 14 individuals.

Jan. 3, 2025, 8:37 AM GMT+6

NEW ORLEANS — Bourbon Street reopened Thursday to a sparse crowd as locals and tourists stayed away from the iconic area following a deadly attack on New Year's Day. More than a dozen people were killed when an assailant drove through crowds of revelers, prompting many to avoid the famous street.

A strong police presence was visible as people entered and exited bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues late into the evening.

A makeshift memorial, composed of small teddy bears, candles, and flowers, was set up by local workers who had witnessed the attack early Wednesday and wanted to honor the victims.

Maria Fields, 30, who helped create the memorial, said, “I wanted to honor those people and give a little hope back to Bourbon Street and the French Quarter.” The attack, carried out by 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former U.S. Army veteran from Texas, killed 14 and injured 30 when he drove a truck into the crowd of revelers early Wednesday.

Though the sights, lights, and sounds of Bourbon Street were as vibrant as usual Thursday night, participation was subdued. New Orleans resident Fred Appleton, 32, expressed caution in returning to the area. “I don’t know, at some point, you have to return to your everyday life. I hope nothing happens,” he said, noting he would not stay out too long.

Demelza Outram, 40, a first-time visitor from Western Australia, was undeterred by the attack. “I don’t believe someone would strike again in the same place, especially with such a heavy police presence here,” she said. “It didn’t dampen my intent to come here. If anything, you still want to come here and support the people and the businesses because you don’t want them to suffer.”

Heavily armed FBI agents patrolled the French Quarter, keeping a watchful eye.

Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said Thursday that the city had enhanced security, adding heavy trucks and steel barriers. Later that evening, more than 30 New Orleans police officers gathered in the center of Bourbon Street to pray for the city and its people. Heads bowed and hands clasped, they stood in silence as a chaplain spoke words of encouragement.

"There are jobs in this world that people are inspired to do," police chaplain Ken DeSoto said after the prayer. "At times like this, they need encouragement. These police officers are people, too. They are heroes."

Rick Goldstein, 72, of Houston, who had driven four hours to ring in 2025, said the attack didn’t stop him from visiting. "I’m looking for a place to get dinner," he said on Bourbon Street. "And to listen to some music."