Louisiana AG orders security review after New Year’s Day truck attack in New Orleans

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has directed the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) to conduct a comprehensive review of security plans from New Year’s Eve and the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. The decision comes in the aftermath of the January 1 terrorist attack on Bourbon Street that claimed 14 lives and left over two dozen critically injured.

The review, initiated after consultation with Governor Jeff Landry, will evaluate all aspects of the city’s security planning and response efforts for the events.

Scope of the Review

According to Murrill, the investigation will examine:

• Security assessments and prior recommendations
• The use of state, federal, and local funding for security measures
• Allocation of assets and resources
• Operational failures
• Coordination among state, local, and federal agencies

"The People of Louisiana deserve answers. We are committed to getting a full and complete picture of what was done or not done, and more importantly, what needs to change so we can prevent this from ever happening again,” Murrill said in a statement.

Cooperation Pledged by Local Officials

Attorney General Murrill emphasized the importance of collaboration in the review process. She confirmed discussions with key New Orleans leaders, including Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick, City Council President Helena Moreno, District Attorney Jason Williams, Inspector General Edward Michel, and Councilman Freddie King, all of whom pledged their full support.

“The men and women of the New Orleans Police Department put their lives on the line for us every single day,” Murrill said. “It was through their bravery and quick action that this evil and cowardly terrorist was terminated before more lives were lost.”

Next Steps

Murrill indicated that she will continue reaching out to other state and community leaders in the coming days as part of the review process. The investigation aims to identify shortcomings and recommend changes to enhance the safety of residents and visitors in Louisiana’s largest city.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

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