The first day of the new year usually brings hope and good intentions, but this year has begun with heartbreaking news from various parts of the world.
In New Orleans, Belgium and Rotterdam, tragic events have marked the beginning of 2025. In the vibrant heart of New Orleans, near Bourbon Street in the famous French Quarter, New Year's Eve ended dramatically. A pickup truck driver drove into a crowd of revelers, killing at least ten people and injuring more than thirty. Eyewitnesses reported that the driver got out of the truck after the collision and started shooting. The police responded immediately and took the perpetrator into custody.
terrorist attack
Mayor LaToya Cantrell called the event a “terrorist attack” and expressed her deepest condolences to the victims and their families. “What was meant to be a celebratory evening for our community and visitors ended in tragedy,” she said at a news conference.
The Bourbon Street area is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike due to its lively atmosphere and numerous bars. The incident has shocked the city, and extensive security measures have been taken to prevent further unrest. The FBI and local authorities are investigating the case as an act of domestic terrorism.
restless new year's eve
In Belgium, New Year's Eve was not without incidents either. Riots took place in several cities, including Brussels and Antwerp. Groups of young people sought confrontation with the police, and in several locations people were injured by fireworks.
In Beerse, a heavy explosion caused considerable damage to a church. The cause of the explosion is not yet clear, but the police are assuming it was deliberate. In Izegem, near the Italianenlaan, an explosion occurred shortly after midnight, which led to a huge burst of flames and a loud bang. Seven people were near the scene of the incident at the time.
In Rotterdam, New Year's Eve was overshadowed by the death of a boy who died while setting off a firework. The tragedy took place on a tram track, where a spontaneous memorial has now been created. Flowers, candles and firework boxes are laid down by bystanders in memory of the victim.
The RET, the Rotterdam transport company, is driving past the memorial at an adjusted speed today. Spokesperson Anja van der Velden says that trams may take a different route if the number of flowers continues to grow. “The sadness of the neighborhood is palpable. We want to offer space for mourning, without this posing a danger to our passengers,” says Van der Velden.
The tragedy of the event has deeply affected the city. Local residents call the incident a “terrible start to the new year” and call for stricter fireworks regulations.
eventful start
Although the start of 2025 is overshadowed by violence and loss, there are already signs of solidarity. People are coming together to grieve, support and seek solutions to prevent a recurrence. In New Orleans, Belgium and Rotterdam, there is a strong sense of solidarity in these difficult times.
