Fort Myers Women Injured in New Orleans Truck Attack
Two 19-year-old women from Fort Myers were among the victims injured in a tragic incident in New Orleans, where a man deliberately drove a truck into a crowd, classified as an "act of terrorism." Elle Eisele and Steele Idelson, both 2023 graduates of Canterbury School in Fort Myers, were caught in the chaos early Wednesday morning.
Current Status of the Victims
Eisele is currently studying at the University of Georgia, while Idelson is enrolled at San Diego State University. Following the attack, both women were hospitalized to receive medical treatment. Fortunately, their families report that they are stable, but they face a challenging recovery ahead. Their families urge for prayers and support for not only the survivors but also for all those who have been affected by this senseless act.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 3:15 a.m. on Wednesday, police reported that the suspect accelerated a vehicle into a group of pedestrians in New Orleans’ French Quarter, specifically along Bourbon Street. The horrific event resulted in at least 15 fatalities and left 35 others injured. In addition to the truck attack, the assailant, later identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar, opened fire on law enforcement officers, injuring two in the process. Authorities confirmed that Jabbar was killed by law enforcement on the scene.
Context of the Tragedy
This incident occurred as New Year’s celebrations were concluding in New Orleans, just hours before the Allstate Sugar Bowl, a prominent college football quarterfinal set to take place at the Caesars Superdome, where thousands of fans were expected to gather.
Statements from Families and Community
The Eisele family expressed their gratitude, stating, "Elle and her lifelong friend Steele are survivors from this senseless act. They are stable and will be okay, but both have a long road ahead of them. Please pray for our girls and for the others impacted."
Additionally, the Canterbury School released a poignant statement: "The Eisele and Idelson families are deeply grateful for the outpouring of thoughts, prayers, and support for our daughters following the tragic attack in New Orleans. We are especially thankful for the exceptional care and compassion they are receiving at University Medical Center. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the first responders, whose swift actions may have saved our daughters’ lives. To everyone who has reached out with love and support, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
Ongoing Coverage
NBC2 is diligently working to uncover more details surrounding this incident and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
