In New Orleans, a tragic incident occurred during New Year’s celebrations when a truck drove into a large crowd, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and injuring over 30 others. The suspect, identified as Shamsud Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old military veteran from Texas, reportedly stated that he aimed to “run over as many people as possible.” Authorities are treating this incident as an act of terrorism, with the FBI taking charge of the investigation.
During the news conference, FBI Special Agent in Charge Alecia Duncan highlighted the ongoing investigation into Jabbar’s potential ties to terrorist organizations, noting that an ISIS flag was found on the vehicle’s trailer hitch. Additionally, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered in Jabbar’s vehicle and elsewhere in the French Quarter, although two of these IEDs have been rendered safe.
New Orleans officials confirmed that Jabbar drove his pickup truck down Bourbon Street with the intention of causing casualties, deliberately bypassing roadblocks. After the collision, he opened fire, injuring two police officers, who are currently in stable condition. Local leaders, including Mayor LaToya Cantrell, have described the event as a terrorist attack that deeply impacts the community.
Both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump commented on the incident, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and support for the victims and their families. President Biden lauded the quick response from local law enforcement, while Trump condemned the crime as an act of “true evil” and criticized issues related to criminal activity in the country.
This situation continues to unfold as authorities work to gather more information on the motives and potential accomplices related to the attack.