New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans turned deadly when 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar drove a truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing 10 and injuring 35.
The attack, described by officials as a “terrorist act,” occurred just after 3 a.m. Jabbar, reportedly a Texas native and former military member, was killed in a firefight with police shortly after the rampage, which also left two officers injured.
Details of the Attack
Jabbar used a rented white Ford F-150 Lightning, adorned with what appeared to be an ISIS flag, to plow through barricades at the corner of Bourbon and Canal Streets. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with Jabbar allegedly acting “hell-bent” on causing destruction before engaging in a firefight with law enforcement.
Federal Investigation Launched
The FBI has confirmed they are treating the incident as an act of terrorism. Improvised explosive devices were reportedly found at the scene and later detonated by the bomb squad. The truck used in the attack, rented via the Turo app, had entered the U.S. from Mexico just two days prior. The owner of the vehicle has cooperated fully with investigators and is not believed to be involved.
Leaders Condemn the Attack
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed his horror and praised law enforcement for their swift response, while Attorney General Merrick Garland called the tragedy “heartbreaking.” He assured the public that federal, state, and local agencies are working together to uncover Jabbar’s motives.
Community Reels in the Aftermath
The attack has shaken New Orleans, with its vibrant Bourbon Street transformed into the site of a mass casualty event. Officials and residents are left grappling with the loss, as the investigation into Jabbar’s background and potential motives continues.
