U.S. cities ramped up security on Thursday following a deadly New Orleans truck attack and an explosion outside a Trump hotel in Las Vegas, raising concerns ahead of major public events this month.
In Washington, security was increased citywide, with visible police presence ahead of key events like former President Jimmy Carter’s Jan. 9 state funeral and President-elect Donald Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration. Trump’s Jan. 19 rally at Capital One Arena prompted added measures, including vehicle barriers during a Wizards basketball game.
The U.S. Secret Service, leading security for Congress’ Jan. 6 certification of Trump’s election, said the event, now a National Special Security Event, was planned prior to recent incidents.
In New Orleans, authorities investigated why a U.S. Army veteran drove into New Year’s revelers with an Islamic State flag on his truck, killing 15. Enhanced security was implemented for the Sugar Bowl, rescheduled for Thursday after the attack. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency through Mardi Gras on March 4.
The FBI is probing potential links between the New Orleans attack and a Tesla explosion near the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas.
Elsewhere, New York City increased police presence at Penn Station, Times Square, and Trump Tower. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police in North Carolina also announced heightened security for Friday’s Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
Officials nationwide emphasized no specific threats but remain vigilant. “We are on alert,” New York Mayor Eric Adams stated.
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