January 4, 2025 09:50 AM (IST)
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are supporting Edward Pettyfer’s family.
A British man has been identified as one of the victims of a deadly New Year’s Day vehicle attack in New Orleans. Edward Pettyfer, 31, of Chelsea, was killed when a man in a pickup truck drove through a crowd on Bourbon Street in the city’s popular French Quarter. The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are supporting Mr Pettyfer’s family at this difficult time.
Authorities confirmed that at least 14 people were killed and at least 35 injured in the attack. The suspect, identified as Shamsud Din Jabbar, drove through the crowd, got out of his car and opened fire. He was then shot and killed by police officers who responded to the scene.
Pettyfer’s family released a statement expressing their shock at the loss of their loved one. “The entire family is shocked by the tragic news of Ed’s passing in New Orleans. He was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend to many. We all miss him so much. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with the other families who have lost loved ones in this horrific attack. We ask that you allow us to grieve Ed’s death privately as a family. thank you.”
Also read: New Orleans attack: ‘bomb material’ in home. Shamsud Din Jabbar had been preparing for weeks. What has the FBI discovered so far?
The New Orleans medical examiner ruled Pettyfer’s cause of death as “blunt force injuries.” The Metropolitan Police said family liaison officers were working with Mr Pettyfer’s relatives to assist with the process of returning the body to the UK. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also said it was providing support to the family and was in contact with U.S. authorities.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell expressed her condolences at a press conference, saying, “Our hearts and prayers continue to go out to the families of the victims. They are important to us and we are committed to supporting them.” expressed. The coroner said the victims ranged in age from 18 to 63, and one of them has not been identified.
Also read: New Orleans attack spotlights Islamic State.com
The attack occurred around 3:15 a.m. local time on New Year’s Day. The FBI confirmed that an Islamic State flag was found inside the suspect’s car, and explosives were also found nearby. Authorities believe Mr. Jabbar acted alone during the attack.
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