The FBI briefed the House Homeland Security Committee on the New Orleans truck attack, stating that the attacker acted alone and was not directed by a foreign terrorist organization. The attack, which left 14 people dead and dozens injured, is being investigated as an act of terrorism and was inspired by ISIS. The attacker, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had expressed a desire to kill in social media posts and had an ISIS flag attached to his truck. The FBI has seized cellphones from the attacker and received leads from the public, conducting interviews with associates and family members. The attacker, born in the U.S., was not on any federal watchlists.
A separate incident involving a Tesla Cybertruck exploding outside of Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism. The FBI has not found a connection between the New Orleans attack and the Las Vegas explosion at this time. The Army Criminal Investigation Division is conducting an ongoing probe, and the Committee will continue oversight of both incidents. President Biden has directed resources to the investigations, and federal, state, and local law enforcement are working to ensure there is no remaining threat.
Democratic Rep. Troy Carter believes New Orleans is secure following the FBI’s assessment and exhaustive search in the downtown area. Leads related to the attack are being pursued, and federal and state authorities are working together on the investigation. House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that FBI agents are on the ground in New Orleans examining every possible angle. Rep. Mike Waltz, national security advisor for President-elect Donald Trump, emphasized the need to examine intelligence indicators and address security concerns both domestically and abroad.
The New Orleans and Las Vegas incidents highlight the ongoing threat of terrorism within the United States. The FBI is leading the investigations, and the government is working to ensure the safety of the public. Law enforcement agencies are analyzing evidence and following leads to determine the motives behind these attacks. The collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities is crucial in resolving these incidents and preventing future acts of terrorism. The Committee will continue to monitor the investigations and provide oversight as necessary to ensure the security of the nation.
