A devastating terrorist attack shook New Orleans’ iconic Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day, leaving 15 people dead and dozens injured. The suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Texas, plowed his pickup truck into the crowded street, slamming into revelers before being shot dead by police.
The FBI is investigating the attack as a terrorist act, with officials stating that Jabbar likely did not act alone. Investigators found guns, improvised explosive devices, and other suspicious devices in the vehicle and nearby areas. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it “despicable” and “heinous.” He also revealed that the FBI discovered videos posted by Jabbar on social media, expressing his desire to kill and claiming inspiration from the Islamic State group.
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene, with one witness, Zion Parsons, recounting the truck “barreling through, throwing people like in a movie scene, throwing people into the air.” New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick labeled the attack as “evil,” stating that Jabbar “defeated” safety measures in place to protect pedestrians.
The FBI is working to determine Jabbar’s potential associations with terrorist organizations. Investigators found multiple improvised explosives, including pipe bombs concealed within coolers and wired for remote detonation. Surveillance footage showed three men and a woman placing one of the devices, but their identities and connection to the attack remain unclear.
In response to the attack, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency in New Orleans and deployed 100 members of the Louisiana National Guard to assist with security. The city is preparing to host several high-profile events, including the Sugar Bowl and Mardi Gras celebrations.
President Biden addressed the victims and the people of New Orleans, saying, “I want you to know I grieve with you. Our nation grieves with you as you mourn and as you heal.” He emphasized that there is no justification for violence and that the nation will not tolerate any attack on its communities.
The attack is the latest example of a vehicle being used as a weapon to carry out mass violence and the deadliest IS-inspired assault on U.S. soil in years. The FBI has warned about an elevated international terrorism threat due to the Israel-Hamas war and has disrupted other potential attacks in recent months.
