A devastating attack in New Orleans just hours into the new year left 15 people dead and many more injured. The incident, which occurred on the popular Bourbon Street, is being investigated by the FBI as a potential act of terrorism.
The attack unfolded early Wednesday when a man from Texas drove a pickup truck through a crowd of New Year's revelers. The truck, reportedly displaying an ISIS flag, plowed through the pedestrian area before the driver engaged in a gunfight with police, ultimately resulting in his death.
Authorities have identified the assailant as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar. Law enforcement officials have revealed that the suspect, a U.S. Army veteran, was found with additional weapons and a possible improvised explosive device inside the vehicle.
The incident began around 3:15 a.m. local time, when Jabbar drove his truck onto the sidewalk, bypassing a police vehicle before crashing. Subsequently, he opened fire on officers, wounding two before being fatally shot by law enforcement. Witnesses described chaotic scenes of “bodies and screams” in the aftermath.
The FBI is looking into Jabbar's background and potential motives. While the investigation is ongoing, they are also exploring the possibility of accomplices. Law enforcement has asked for public assistance in providing more insight into this tragic event.
Jabbar’s military record shows service in the Army from 2006 to 2015 and the Army Reserve from 2015 to 2020. His deployment included time in Afghanistan. Texas records also reveal a history of misdemeanor theft and driving violations. Additionally, a restraining order was filed against him by a former spouse.
The attack, initially reported with 10 fatalities, tragically claimed the lives of 15 individuals. Among those identified are Martin “Tiger” Bech, a former Princeton football player, and Reggie Hunter, a father from Louisiana. Ni’Kyra Cheyenne Dedeaux, 18, was also among the victims.
While authorities do not believe Jabbar acted entirely alone, no other active suspects are being sought at this time. Containers initially feared to be improvised explosive devices were investigated, but those involved have been cleared.
President Biden revealed that Jabbar had posted videos online expressing support for ISIS and indicating an intent to kill. The president also cautioned against premature conclusions, as the investigation continues.
