New Orleans massacre tightens DC security for inauguration, former President Carter’s funeral

WASHINGTON - The New Orleans attack is being analyzed closely by security officials in Washington, D.C. The next few weeks are already packed with high-profile events around the nation’s capital. FOX 5’s Tom Fitzgerald spoke with officials about the impact that is sure to heighten awareness even further.

This month alone, the D.C. region will have a trifecta of major security events in and around the District that was already slated to bring down a massive security presence in our area. But in the wake of the New Orleans attack, officials say they now have a new ‘footprint’ to consider as part of the security planning that’s already underway.

On Monday, January 6, Congress will certify the 2024 election results. This will come with a massive security force and steel fencing around the Capitol following the insurrection riot of 2021. Then from Tuesday to Thursday, D.C. will host the funeral event for the late former President Jimmy Carter. On January 20, the nation’s capital will be the site of the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

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New Orleans massacre tightens DC security for inauguration, former President Carter’s funeral

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D.C.’s police chief says the District is ready. "The Metropolitan Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and community members affected by the tragic events in New Orleans. We are actively working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to share intelligence and provide support for the ongoing investigation," the department said in a statement.

"While there is no known threat to the District of Columbia, out of an abundance of caution, MPD has heightened its security posture across the city in light of recent events. While we do not discuss specifics regarding operations, tactics, or staffing, the community will notice an increased police presence throughout the city," the statement continued.

"Whenever an incident occurs in the country, MPD closely monitors the situation, evaluates intelligence, and assesses our security posture. As the nation's capital, we maintain a heightened level of security at all times to ensure the safety of our residents, businesses, and visitors," the department said. "As we approach upcoming major events in the District of Columbia, MPD will continue working with our local and federal partners to assess potential threats and make any necessary adjustments to safeguard the community."

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The Department of Homeland Security has already declared the upcoming ceremonies to be national special security events. The designation unlocks funds and law enforcement across the federal government.

Robert McDonald, a former U.S. Secret Service agent, now professor at New Haven University, tells FOX 5 he expects an already robust D.C. security plan will be tightened.

"You're going to see dump trucks and plow trucks covering all the intersections in and around the Capitol this coming, in a couple of weeks," McDonald said.

He said the public should prepare for longer lines leading into events. He also stressed the need for the public to be situationally aware. "If you go to the mall, if you go to church, if you go to the park, know how to take care of yourself and get yourself out of a situation."

"There may be a lot of police and first responders around, but they may be going to respond to something different before they're going to come to help you," McDonald said. "So, I don't want anybody to live in fear. But you've got to know where your surroundings are and got to know how to get yourself out of a situation and take care of you and your loved ones until help can arrive."