Tourists among eight killed in New York terror attack
Six foreigners were among eight people killed in a truck attack in Lower Manhattan yesterday.
A further 11 people were injured when the driver of the truck ploughed into walkers and cyclists.
A 29-year-old man, reported to be an Uzbek immigrant from Florida, was shot and injured by police as he got out of the vehicle.
US President Donald Trump has ordered the Department of Homeland Security to step up vetting measures following the attack, which is the worst New York has experienced since two aircraft deliberately flew into the World Trade Center in 2001.
The suspect reportedly shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’ (‘God is greatest’) as he left the truck.
A note was found in the truck that referred to Islamic State, according to police.
Five of those killed were Argentines, who were part of a group of 10 friends who had travelled to New York to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their graduation.
A Belgian national was also killed, Belgium’s foreign minister said. Two other victims have not yet been identified.
Local authorities have advised people to avoid the area of West Street (Barclay Street to Christopher Street) in Manhattan due to the ongoing investigation, said the UK Foreign Office.
The New York Police Department has also announced that there will be additional security across the city. Security was tightened around the traditional Village Halloween parade, which took place as usual last night.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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