Federal authorities are investigating a mass casualty event in New Orleans as an act of terrorism after a truck was driven into crowds on Bourbon Street in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The attack, which left 10 people dead and dozens injured, has shocked the nation.
The Incident
The FBI confirmed that the suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S. citizen from Texas, drove a rented pickup truck at high speed into crowds on the iconic nightlife street around 3:15 a.m. CST. After crashing, Jabbar opened fire at police, injuring two officers who are now in stable condition. Law enforcement returned fire, killing him at the scene.
An ISIS flag was discovered in the truck, alongside weapons and a suspected improvised explosive device (IED). The FBI is investigating potential ties between Jabbar and terrorist organizations and is searching for any possible associates.
Additional Threats
The FBI revealed that other potential IEDs were found in the French Quarter. Bomb technicians are working to assess their viability, and the area remains under heightened security. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick described the attack as “very intentional,” emphasizing Jabbar’s apparent determination to cause maximum harm.
Federal Response
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland called the event a “terrible tragedy,” pledging all available resources to the investigation. President Biden also condemned the attack, stating, “There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation’s communities.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Justice Department’s National Security Division, are assisting in the investigation.
Local Impact and Reactions
The attack occurred during a busy holiday period as crowds gathered for New Year’s celebrations and in anticipation of the College Football Playoff Sugar Bowl between Georgia and Notre Dame at the Caesars Superdome.
Gov. Jeff Landry (R) called the attack a “horrific act of violence,” while state Attorney General Liz Murrill (R) urged people to stay clear of the French Quarter as investigations continue.
President-elect Trump weighed in on his Truth Social platform, blaming America’s crime rate and reiterating his administration’s focus on national security.
A City in Mourning
The victims, who were taken to five local hospitals, and their families are receiving support from local agencies. Emergency preparedness organization NOLA Ready is coordinating responses to the tragedy.
