New Orleans, January 2, 2025 – The early hours of January 1st saw a tragic incident unfold on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans. A pickup truck driven by 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar plunged into a crowd of revelers, killing 15 and injuring at least 35.
The FBI has since stated that Jabbar was a lone wolf and that ISIS had inspired him.
Incident’s Detail
At about 3:15 a.m. CST, Jabbar crashed his Ford F-150 pickup truck through a packed crowd on Bourbon Street. After striking a crane, he exited the vehicle, clad in body armor and carrying an assault weapon, and fired at police officers, who retaliated; he died in the shootout. Only 2 police officers were injured during the fracas and both are now said to be in stable condition.
Findings of Investigation
An ISIS flag was found inside Jabbar’s truck, prompting authorities to treat the incident as an act of terrorism. The FBI’s investigation found that Jabbar allegedly made posts about his “wish to kill,” inspired by ISIS, only a few hours prior to the attack.
In addition were a few crude explosive devices nearby, but none were detonated.
About the Suspect
A 42-year-old Jabbar is a U.S. Army veteran from Texas, with minimal criminal involvement and a new convert to Islam within the past year.
Family members reported that in recent months he had become erratic, threatening even his own family. Yet he was not under NSA watch before his offense.
Official Responses
President Joe Biden branded the attack as “despicable” and “abominable” while extending condolences to the victims and their families. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency to facilitate recovery for the dazed city. Besides the attack, to avoid attracting large crowds at the Sugar Bowl that was scheduled for later in the day, the event was postponed, and the security level within the city has been boosted exponentially since.
Community Impact
This has left the French Quarter, noted for its lively night scenes and historic attributes, in shock. With the attacks, local businesses and residents are grappling with their aftermath, raising fears about the conduct of similar events in the future.
Counseling has been made available to victims, and community vigils are being set up in honor of the victims.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI has confirmed Jabbar acted alone in executing the attack, but investigations are ongoing to find out whether he had any accomplices in planning the attack or whether a broader network is involved.
They are also investigating any possible connections between this incident and a separate explosion that occurred in Las Vegas that day, although no definitive links have been made at this time.
Safety Measures
In response to the attack, New Orleans officials have called for a greater police presence throughout the city, including in tourist-heavy areas like the French Quarter. They urge residents and tourists alike to be more vigilant in observing potential criminal activities and are advised to report them immediately to law enforcement.
The city is undergoing a review of its security processes for public events in an effort to guard against similar tragedies occurring in the future.
The New Orleans community, along with the country, mourns loss of life in this senseless act of violence. While investigations continue, authorities are determined to fully establish all of Jabbar’s reasons behind the act and any further connections with terrorist organizations, to thereby ensure justice is completely served for the victims and their families.
