The suspect behind the deadly terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on New Year’s Day has been identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar, a Texas native and former U.S. Army soldier. The attack, which claimed the lives of at least 10 revelers and left dozens injured, is being investigated by the FBI as an act of terrorism.
Details of the Attack
Dressed in camouflage and full-body armor, Jabbar drove a pickup truck into a crowd of New Year’s celebrants at approximately 3:15 a.m. on January 1. After crashing the vehicle, Jabbar exited and opened fire on the crowd and responding police officers, injuring two officers before being fatally shot in a gunfight.
Authorities reportedly found an ISIS flag on Jabbar’s person, raising concerns about potential ties to international terrorist networks. Additionally, four suspicious packages were discovered along Bourbon Street and were safely detonated by law enforcement. Investigators believe the truck used in the attack was rigged with explosives, according to WDSU.
A Closer Look at Jabbar
Jabbar, a former U.S. Army soldier, is being scrutinized for his military service and possible connections to extremist groups. Investigators are delving into his background, communications, and online activity to uncover any links to ISIS or other terrorist organizations.
Details about Jabbar’s time in the military remain limited, but authorities are examining whether his training played a role in the attack. The FBI is also investigating his recent activities and any signs of radicalization.
Vehicle and Planning Details
Initial reports suggested that the vehicle used in the attack crossed into the U.S. from Mexico at Eagle Pass, Texas, two days before the incident. However, those claims are now being disputed. ABC News reports that the truck was rented through the app Turo, raising new questions about how Jabbar planned and executed the attack.
The combination of explosives, firearms, and military-style tactics has led authorities to believe the attack was meticulously premeditated.
National and Political Responses
President Joe Biden condemned the attack as a “horrific incident” and directed federal agencies to fully support the investigation. “The FBI is treating this as an act of terrorism, and we will not rest until we uncover the full extent of what happened,” Biden said. “My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday.”
Outgoing and incoming political leaders alike have expressed outrage. President-elect Donald Trump called the attack “an act of pure evil” and vowed to prioritize national security and counterterrorism efforts under his administration.
