The following is a statement from Chief John Drake on this morning's reported terrorism in New Orleans:
"I am closely watching the evolving investigation surrounding this morning's vehicle attack on persons celebrating in New Orleans' French Quarter. My thoughts are with the victims and the wounded members of the New Orleans Police Department. As investigative details and conclusions are made known, we will review those, as we would with any national critical incident, to incorporate any lessons learned into our own public safety planning or protocols. Preparing for special events in our city, such as last night's New Year's Eve Big Bash, requires extensive planning by multiple police department components and our public safety partners. We use mobile barriers/gates as a part of those plans. With respect to downtown, the Entertainment District Unit was formed nearly two years ago to provide an additional cohesive, visible police presence Thursday through Sunday to enhance safety and is complemented by sidewalk bollards along Broadway."