Bourbon Street in the French Quarter is usually an upbeat and happy destination for travelers and locals alike. But in the early morning hours of January 1, an attack killed at least 15 and injured 30 more in the famed New Orleans neighborhood. According to NBC News, federal investigators believe Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, intentionally rammed a truck into a group of people celebrating the new year. Jabbar later died in a shootout with police. His deliberate act of hate changed the landscape that evening, but the people of New Orleans won’t let evil win.
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Music has returned to New Orleans' French Quarter after the deadly New Year's Day attack. pic.twitter.com/rd8oJQtqYV
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 3, 2025
New Orleans Fought Back After The Attack
ABC News reported that after the brazen attack on Bourbon Street, the French Quarter became quiet. The area, known for its lively atmosphere, was somber in the wake of multiple deaths and injuries. But on January 3, Bourbon Street opened for business. Even though the streets began to fill, one thing was missing, the legendary street music played by buskers. Then, around 11 a.m., the horns began to blow, and the sweet jazz music returned.
Musician Aoleoin Broomfield told ABC News she was happy the city bounced back so quickly, “I still feel like we’re reeling from the aftereffects of Katrina, and even COVID,” she said. “We lost a lot of tourism, and a lot of businesses closed down during COVID. I hate to see another thing happen.”
She added that music helps her escape her thought about the attack on New Orleans.
“[Music] takes your mind off everything going on, even though it’s temporary,” Aoleoin said. “It’s healing. I just want things to be normal even though it’s not normal. So, I like playing out here just so I can feel a little bit normal,” she said.
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