New Year’s Day is usually met with celebration and hope for the new year. But not for New Orleans, which started 2025 with the tragedy of a terrorist attack — a moment in time that will be remembered forever not only by the people who live in the city but by all who have visited.
Fourteen victims were killed and 35 were injured in the attack on Jan. 1. The terrorist, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove through Canal Street and then made his way to Bourbon Street, where he ran over victims. After exiting his vehicle and firing a gun at the local police, he was shot and killed at the scene.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry called it “a horrific act of violence” on the social media platform X.
Last fall, we took a trip to New Orleans for the Fall National College Media Convention. We got to see a city that holds so much history and passion for people of different walks of life. As we roamed the streets, we learned about the culture, listened to music and tried new foods. When we got back to Florida, we could not stop talking about how much we enjoyed our time in this lively city. The thought of someone purposely going after such a beautiful city filled with a welcoming community has completely shifted our view on the world.
While learning more about the attack, we are still wrapping our heads around the fact that just a few months ago, we were walking the same streets that this tragedy took place on.
Mike Lynn, assistant director of Mako Media Network, also attended the Fall National College Media Convention and walked on Bourbon Street. Lynn said he and his father were in a restaurant on the street where the tragedy happened.
“My father and I walked that same street,” Lynn said. “I think that really changes your perspective quite a bit, because there’s a bit of the very humbling reality that it could very much happen to you.”
Our friend Emily Potter, Mako TV sports anchor, was planning to celebrate New Year’s in New Orleans, but at the last minute chose not to go. She said she’s glad to have reconsidered the trip before going.
“Me and my friends wanted to go for New Year’s, and we decided extremely last minute that it was kind of a lot to do in a short period of time,” Potter said. “I’m a religious person, so I think that was God saying that I didn’t need to be there and kind of looking out for me. And so, I’m thankful to not have gone.”
This attack has dulled what has always been known as a vibrant city, leaving us to feel empathy toward those directly affected who were having what they thought would be a normal night filled with fun and celebration.
We are taking the time to reflect on this tragic event and remind ourselves not to take life for granted. Every moment is precious, and as we continue to live our lives, and be journalists, having empathy for others is something that is important to us.
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