Attacker Identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar
A tragic incident unfolded in New Orleans during New Year’s celebrations when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US Army veteran from Texas, drove a white Ford F-150 electric pickup into a crowd, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. Jabbar, who had worked as a real estate agent in Houston and served as an IT specialist in the military, was identified by the FBI as the perpetrator.
FBI Probes Possible Accomplices
The FBI has indicated that Jabbar might not have acted alone, though specifics about potential accomplices remain undisclosed. FBI agent Alethea Duncan mentioned ongoing searches in New Orleans and other states, suggesting a broader investigation into the attack.
Details of the Attack
The assault took place around 3:15 am near Bourbon Street, a bustling area of the French Quarter filled with New Year’s revelers. After plowing into the crowd, Jabbar engaged in a shootout with police, resulting in his death and injuries to two officers. The vehicle contained an ISIS flag, and two homemade bombs were also discovered and neutralized by authorities.
Political and Law Enforcement Responses
US President Joe Biden condemned the act as “despicable” and noted that Jabbar had posted online content prior to the attack, indicating inspiration from ISIS. Additionally, investigations are exploring any connections between this attack and the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck in Las Vegas, though no links have been confirmed. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry emphasized the state’s determination to apprehend any additional culprits.
Background of Shamsud-Din Jabbar
Jabbar served in the US Army from 2007 to 2015, followed by service in the Army Reserve until 2020, with a deployment to Afghanistan during that period. His military background and the presence of the ISIS flag have raised questions about his radicalization.
READ ALSO: New Orleans New Year’s Horror: Vehicle Attack Leaves 10 Dead, 30 Injured
Impact on New Orleans
The attack turned New Year’s festivities into a scene of chaos and terror, with witnesses describing scenes akin to a “war zone.” The incident overshadowed the planned Sugar Bowl, which was subsequently postponed. New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant culture and major events like the upcoming Super Bowl, was left to deal with the aftermath of this horrific act.
Vehicle Rental Coincidence
Both vehicles involved in the New Orleans attack and the Las Vegas explosion were rented via the Turo app, raising questions about security protocols. However, Turo’s spokesperson clarified that neither renter had a criminal background that would have flagged them as threats, calling the connection a coincidence under investigation.
