FBI Now In Charge Following Deadly Attack
Federal authorities are investigating a deadly attack in New Orleans as an “act of terrorism” after a man deliberately drove his truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street early on New Year’s Day. The FBI is leading the probe, and early reports confirm that at least 10 people were killed, with many more injured in the chaos.
The attacker, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas, was killed in a shootout with police after the truck crashed. Inside the vehicle, investigators found an ISIS flag, weapons, and a suspected improvised explosive device (IED). The FBI is working to determine whether Jabbar had any direct connections to terrorist groups or other radical elements. Further investigations are underway to determine if there were any other accomplices or ongoing threats to the public.
The assault occurred around 3:15 a.m. CST, as large crowds gathered for New Year’s celebrations. Jabbar drove the truck at high speed into revelers before crashing it and opening fire on officers. Two New Orleans police officers were wounded but are in stable condition, and the assailant was fatally shot by return gunfire from law enforcement.
The FBI and other federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), are collaborating with local authorities to assess additional IEDs found in the area. Investigators are working to determine whether the devices are live and whether the suspect had any broader plot in mind.
In the aftermath of the attack, leaders from both Louisiana and across the nation condemned the violence. Governor Jeff Landry, a Republican, described the assault as a “horrific act of violence,” offering prayers for the victims and first responders. The state’s Attorney General, Liz Murrill, also a Republican, called the event a “brutal intentional slaughter” of innocent people celebrating the holiday.
President Joe Biden expressed his condolences, calling the incident “a terrible tragedy,” while former President Donald Trump also weighed in, blaming rising crime rates and Democratic policies for fostering an environment where such attacks can occur. Trump condemned the attack, offering support to the city of New Orleans and reiterating his belief that criminals coming into the country pose a severe threat to national security.
This horrific attack underscores the vulnerability of American communities, even in the most celebratory moments. The investigation continues, with both local and federal officials pledging to work together to bring justice to those responsible and ensure that New Orleans and the nation remain vigilant in the face of terror.
