Tragedy struck New Orleans’ French Quarter in the early hours of New Year’s Day when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US Army veteran, drove a pickup truck into a crowd of pedestrians on Bourbon Street, killing 15 and injuring 35. The suspect, described by police as a “terrorist,” was fatally shot during a confrontation with law enforcement.
Attack Details
The attack occurred at approximately 3:15 am near the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets, a bustling area known for its music, bars, and vibrant nightlife. Videos shared on social media captured the harrowing moments when Jabbar’s white Ford F-150 electric pickup truck, bearing Texas plates and an ISIS flag, maneuvered through Canal Street traffic before accelerating into the crowded Bourbon Street.
Security camera footage shows the vehicle swerving around makeshift barriers as panicked revelers scrambled to escape. After ramming into the crowd, Jabbar exited the vehicle and was killed in a shootout with police officers, two of whom sustained injuries.
Police also discovered three improvised pipe bombs in the vicinity, including one inside Jabbar’s truck, suggesting he may have had assistance in planning the attack. Authorities have not disclosed any details about additional suspects.
Ties to ISIS and Investigations
US President Joe Biden condemned the attack as “despicable,” stating that Jabbar had uploaded videos online prior to the incident, claiming inspiration from the Islamic State (ISIS). The FBI confirmed the discovery of an ISIS flag in Jabbar’s vehicle but is continuing its investigation into any direct connections to the extremist group.
The attack in New Orleans has also drawn attention to another incident in Las Vegas on Wednesday. A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside a hotel partially owned by President-elect Donald Trump, killing one person. Authorities are investigating whether there is any link between the two events, though Las Vegas police currently believe the explosion to be isolated.
Jabbar’s Background
Jabbar served in the US Army as a human resources and IT specialist from 2007 to 2015 and later in the Army Reserve until 2020. He held the rank of Staff Sergeant and was deployed to Afghanistan from February 2009 to January 2010.
The Pentagon has not commented on his radicalization but confirmed his military service history.
Response and Reactions
President Biden extended his condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance against terrorism. The French Quarter, a popular tourist destination, remains cordoned off as authorities investigate the scene and ensure public safety.
This horrifying act has left the nation in mourning and raised urgent questions about domestic terrorism and radicalization among military veterans.
Sources By Agencies
