The truck used in the early morning attack had a Texas license plate. A man, who would not identify himself, at the Pasadena address connected to the license plate did not answer questions when approached by KHOU 11 News. He only confirmed that the vehicle had been rented out.

The crash happened around 3:15 p.m. on Bourbon Street, the legendary party district in the heart of New Orleans. The truck driver apparently drove through or around barricades meant to stop traffic from entering the street, officials said.