New Orleans City Council News Release Del Rio Cole
NEW ORLEANS — Members of the New Orleans City Council have issued the following statements in response to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill’s announcement that her office would be conducting an investigation into the Bourbon Street Terror Attack that took place on New Year’s Eve:
“I have been in communication with Attorney General Murrill regarding her investigation, and I have assured her that the City Council will be a supportive partner throughout this process,” said Council President Helena Moreno. “She has also agreed to provide essential updates on the investigation to Councilmember King and either Councilmember Morrell or me as we move forward. The Attorney General says her intent is to review the tactical preparations for New Year’s Eve and the immediate response. I have consistently emphasized the need for a comprehensive review to identify any gaps and prevent future mistakes.”
“This investigation must involve reviewing important factors such as intelligence, including those who received intelligence reports, along with the pre-planning for New Year’s Eve, and the overall deployment of the tactical plan,” Council President Moreno continued. “It will require collaboration across multiple levels of government — local, state and federal — to gather necessary information. The results of this investigation must be fully transparent. The public deserves to have all the answers. Attorney General Murrill’s tactical inquiry into the New Year’s Day events will not hinder the City Council’s examination of other significant issues, such as the recent revelations about the Subpar Bollard System. Instead, it will enable the Council to focus fully on identifying solutions and proactive measures for enhanced security initiatives for Mardi Gras, the Super Bowl and beyond.”
“The bifurcation of this investigation is in the best interest of the city,” said Council Vice President JP Morrell. “Having the Attorney General focus on the tactical preparation and execution of assets on New Year’s will lead to an unbiased review of city, state and outside agencies to uncover the facts, as an internal investigation would be considered untrustworthy at best.”
“The horrific attack last week amplifies the need for effective and immediate security measures in downtown New Orleans,” said District ‘B’ Councilmember Lesli Harris. “We are aggressively working to determine the next steps that will best serve residents and visitors alike. That assessment includes the bollards that were being installed on Bourbon Street in time for the Super Bowl – which we now understand to be ineffective. The Council and our partners are committed to implementing more suitable protections at Bourbon Street and beyond to ensure we are keeping New Orleans safe.”
“The attack on Bourbon Street highlights the urgent need for accountability and collaboration to protect our city from future threats,” said District ‘C’ Councilmember Freddie King. “The state’s tactical inquiry will complement the City Council’s broader review, allowing us to address critical issues like pre-planning, intelligence sharing, and the bollard system. Together, we will ensure that every gap is identified, every question answered, and every necessary step taken to safeguard New Orleans during major events.”
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