NEW ORLEANS – Bourbon Street reopened Thursday to a light crowd as tourists and locals fled the world-famous destination after a gunman tore through a crowd of protesters, killing more than a dozen people on New Year’s Day.
A heavy police presence could be seen as pickers from near and far went in and out of bars, restaurants and entertainment venues Thursday night.
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Along the street was a makeshift memorial with small teddy bears, candles and flowers prepared by local workers who witnessed the attack early Wednesday and wanted to pay tribute to those who died.
“I wanted to honor those people and bring a little hope back to Bourbon Street and the French Quarter,” said Maria Fields, 30, standing in front of the monument she helped create.
Fourteen people were killed and 30 more were injured when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a former U.S. Army veteran from Texas, drove a truck through dozens of developers early Wednesday.
As Thursday afternoon turned into night, the sights, bright lights, and loud noises of Bourbon Street were the same as usual, but they lacked strong turnout.
Fred Appleton, 32, of New Orleans, said he was nervous and hesitant to meet friends with the recent attack in mind.
“I don’t know, at some point you have to go back to your everyday life. “I hope nothing happens,” he said, promising not to stay out too long.
Demelza Outram, 40, from Western Australia, was visiting Bourbon Street for the first time. She said the attack didn’t scare her.
“I don’t think anyone will strike in the same place again, especially with such a heavy police presence here,” Outram said, adding that it was the perfect time to patronize local businesses.
“That didn’t discourage my intention 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,” he said.
Heavily armed FBI agents roamed the French Quarter and maintained surveillance.
Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said earlier Thursday that the city had added more protections, including heavy trucks and heavy steel barriers.
On Thursday night, more than 30 New Orleans police officers formed a circle in the center of Bourbon Street to pray for the night, the city and their souls.
With their heads bowed and some hands clasped, everyone remained silent as a chaplain brought his call to life.
“There are jobs in this world that people are inspired to do,” police chaplain Ken DeSoto said after his prayer. “At times like this, they need encouragement. These police officers are people too. “They are heroes.”
Rick Goldstein, 72, of Houston, said he drove four hours to celebrate and ring in 2025.
He also said the attack did not stop him from wanting to visit the historic destination.
“I’m looking for a place to have dinner,” he said on Bourbon Street. “And listen to some music.”
