Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill shared more on Wednesday night about the terror attack on Bourbon Street and the ongoing investigation.
Murrill shared what she could about the investigation and attack with WWL Radio, noting that as of Wednesday night, the two officers who were shot are in stable condition and being treated for their injuries.
As for what will happen with the investigation, Murrill shared that the FBI is taking the lead but that her office is working with investigators to help identify and locate those responsible for the attack. She also asked that anyone with information come forward.
Investigators are also looking into a house fire that broke out in New Orleans, which they believe to be connected to the attack.
“We really don’t have any new information other than what was reported earlier [Wednesday],” she said. “There was a house fire here in New Orleans this morning, which is related to this event. And we believe the individuals had rented that house and were using it to make the IEDs.”
While she doesn’t know why the fire was started, she says she suspects it was intentional, saying she doesn’t think it was a coincidence.
When it comes to potential charges, Murrill says should she be responsible for trying the case, the top charges and sentences will be sought.
“Well, if I have anything to do with it, we’re going to charge him with first-degree murder and seek the death penalty,” she said. “I think that given some recent events involving federal prosecutions, I would say that the state should proceed with that case. Whether the feds do it or not, because we’ll be sure and carry it out.”
With people headed to New Orleans to celebrate the new year and the Sugar Bowl, some were worried about the potential for another attack or law enforcement facing difficulties in locating the suspects.
Murrill shared that the downtown area has an “enormous law enforcement presence,” so those in the city should know they are safe.
“I have been down there on Canal Street. I just came back from there. I think there are a lot of people milling around and walking around. And I think that they are safe,” she said. “The police did a large detailed grid search this morning to ensure that that entire area was safe for people, and they would have closed it down if it wasn’t.”
For more from the talk with Murrill, listen on the Audacy app or wherever you get your podcasts.