Horror on New Year’s Day: One Woman’s Account of the Tragic Events
A Moment of Instinct
Briana Upshur, a North Miami native, was working in the French Quarter on New Year’s Day when a devastating event unfolded before her eyes. A man drove his truck into a crowd in the early morning hours, causing chaos and destruction. Upshur, along with others, rushed to the scene to provide assistance to the injured.
"I know I serve a bigger purpose in life, and my purpose is to serve the people," Upshur said. "In that moment, I knew that person needed me."
Cellphone Video Captures Chaos
Upshur recorded cellphone video of the aftermath, which shows several victims lying on the ground mere seconds after the attack. The scene was one of utter chaos and devastation.
"I took the jacket off my back. I gave away pieces of clothing just to keep people safe," Upshur recalled.
The Tragic Aftermath
The attack left 14 people dead and 35 others injured. The driver, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed in a shootout with police. Officials later found an Islamic State flag tied to the hitch of his truck, as well as several guns and explosives.
"In addition, police believe Jabbar hid two explosive devices in coolers throughout the French Quarter before his death. The explosives were found and safely disposed of," authorities stated.
A Bonding Moment with a Stranger
Upshur later discovered that one of the victims she cradled in her arms was also from the Miami area. That victim remains in the hospital with severe injuries.
Conclusion
Briana Upshur’s story is a testament to the resilience and compassion of human beings. In the face of tragedy and chaos, she chose to act with kindness and selflessness, helping those in need. Her account serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of moments, there is always hope and always a reason to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many people were killed in the attack?
A: 14 people were killed in the attack.
Q: How many people were injured?
A: 35 people were injured in the attack.
Q: What happened to the driver of the truck?
A: The driver, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed in a shootout with police.
Q: What was found in the truck?
A: An Islamic State flag, several guns, and explosives were found in the truck.
Q: Are the explosive devices safe?
A: Yes, the explosives were found and safely disposed of by authorities.
