I am saddened and frustrated beyond words at the tragic, senseless and PREVENTABLE attack in New Orleans. My deepest sympathy to the survivors and those affected by the PREVENTABLE tragic mass attack that was allowed to happen.
The city of New Orleans acknowledged that the attack was not prevented. I don’t know that they could have denied it. The physical barriers they installed were ineffective. Does anyone else find it unsettling that it never crossed anyone’s mind that an individual would drive on the sidewalk if there was enough room on the street? Was consensus that the attacker would not want to get a traffic ticket or that off-roading was a deal breaker? If someone is planning a mass murder, I am almost certain that they would not call it quits if they couldn’t drive in designated areas.
Rest assured, the FBI is investigating every lead. A bit late, I think. This incident, like all of the others, are “textbook cases” of pre-attack behaviors. This is not a new concept. The information is available to the public under the highly publicized If you See Something Say Something campaign. I don’t know that the general public knows much more than that. What something do they need to see? To whom should they say something? Did anyone say anything this time?
The attacker’s ex-wife’s husband stated that the shooter’s behavior was “all crazy”. This is not helpful now. I say this because this statement can be added to the mounting evidence that confirms pre-attack behaviors. The evidence continues to be dismissed in conversations and preventative efforts – but if you see something, say something.
Rather than dispelling rumors and discussing physical safeguards, increasing the presence of law enforcement at large events, scaring people and reinforcing the belief that there is nothing that can be done to prevent these senseless tragedies and asking for prayers or sending thoughts and prayers, maybe, just maybe, this would be a good time to talk to the public, while everyone is watching, while everyone is paying attention, when people may be interested in preventing the next tragedy.