Biden Attends Prayer Service in New Orleans for Victims of New Year’s Day Attack
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden attended a solemn prayer service in New Orleans on January 6, 2025, honoring the victims of the deadly truck attack on New Year’s Day. The service, held at St. Louis Cathedral, was a moment of unity and reflection for the families and community members affected by the tragedy.
Biden expressed his condolences during the service, acknowledging the profound shock and pain experienced by those impacted. “My wife Jill and I are here to stand with you, to grieve with you, to pray with you, to let you know you are not alone,” Biden said. He also reflected on the 14 lives lost and the 35 individuals injured in what he described as a “horrific act of terrorism.” Biden paid tribute to the first responders and law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to stop the attack.
Archbishop Gregory Aymond of New Orleans also addressed the gathered attendees, emphasizing the impact of the attack, which he described as a wound not only to New Orleans but to the entire nation. “We never expect such a tragedy to happen at home, but we never know when evil will raise its ugly head,” Aymond said.
During the service, the names of the 14 victims were read aloud, and candles were placed on the altar in their honor. The Bidens also placed a candle, symbolizing unity and peace, to remember those lost.
Ahead of the prayer service, the Bidens visited a memorial on Bourbon Street, where the attack took place, and laid a bouquet of flowers. They also met with survivors, families, and local law enforcement. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran and Houston realtor, allegedly drove a rented truck into Bourbon Street, killing 14 and injuring dozens. Jabbar was killed in a gunfire exchange with New Orleans police.
In response to the attack, the Biden administration has pledged additional federal resources for the city, including increased security for Mardi Gras festivities and the upcoming Super Bowl in New Orleans.
