A horrific attack unfolded on New Year’s Day when a U.S. Army veteran, inspired by the Islamic State group, drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd of revelers in New Orleans, killing 15 and injuring dozens. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar from Texas, was shot dead by police after opening fire on responding officers.
Authorities revealed that Jabbar posted videos hours before the attack, pledging allegiance to ISIS and expressing his intent to kill. The FBI has classified the incident as a terrorist act and is investigating possible accomplices, citing evidence that Jabbar may not have acted alone.
Investigators discovered firearms, an improvised explosive device, and multiple other explosives in Jabbar’s truck and elsewhere in the French Quarter. The vehicle bore an Islamic State flag, further linking the attack to extremist motivations.
“This despicable act of violence has left a devastating impact on our community,” said President Joe Biden, addressing the nation from Camp David. “There is no place for this evil in our society. We grieve with the victims and their families as they heal.”
Incident Overview:
- Attack Details: Jabbar maneuvered around police barricades and plowed into the crowded Bourbon Street, leaving behind a trail of devastation. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with victims thrown into the air and panicked bystanders seeking refuge in nearby establishments.
- Casualties: Fifteen people lost their lives, including college student Nikyra Dedeaux, with dozens more injured. A college football playoff game at the Superdome was postponed as a result.
- Police Response: Jabbar exited the vehicle and exchanged gunfire with police. Three officers returned fire, fatally wounding him. Two officers were injured and remain in stable condition.
The FBI has confirmed that surveillance footage shows additional individuals potentially involved in planting explosives near the attack site. Law enforcement is working to identify and locate these suspects.
“This is not just an act of terrorism. This is pure evil,” stated New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick.
The attack, the deadliest ISIS-inspired act in years on U.S. soil, has raised concerns about ongoing threats of terrorism. The FBI has emphasized an elevated risk due to global conflicts and has disrupted similar plots in recent months.
The once-festive Bourbon Street was transformed into a crime scene, with residents and tourists expressing shock and disbelief. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has urged the public to avoid the area as investigations continue.
“This morning’s events are a stark reminder of the challenges we face in keeping our communities safe,” remarked U.S. Senator John Kennedy. “We stand united against those who wish to harm us.”
As New Orleans mourns, President Biden reassured the nation of the government’s commitment to combating terrorism and protecting its citizens.