A U.S. Army veteran drove a pickup truck bearing the flag of the Islamic State group into a New Year’s celebration in New Orleans, killing 15 people before being shot dead by police. The FBI is investigating the attack as a terrorist act and believes the driver did not act alone. President Joe Biden mentioned that the driver had posted videos on social media expressing his inspiration from the Islamic State group and desire to kill. The rampage left dozens injured and a nearby college football playoff game was postponed.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene of bodies flying and people screaming as the truck plowed through the crowd on Bourbon Street. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick referred to the incident as an act of evil, stating that the driver was intent on causing destruction. The driver, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas, was killed by police after he exited the truck and opened fire. The FBI is working to determine any potential associations with terrorist organizations.
Investigations revealed that the vehicle contained guns and what appeared to be an improvised explosive device, along with other devices found in the city’s French Quarter. The FBI obtained surveillance footage showing multiple improvised explosives and individuals placing devices, although it was not immediately confirmed who they were or their connection to the attack. The driver managed to circumvent safety measures meant to protect pedestrians, including a police blockade and a barrier system that was under repair.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials recovered a handgun and AR-style rifle from the scene. Deadly explosions in Honolulu and outside a Las Vegas hotel were also reported, prompting the FBI to look into potential connections with the New Orleans attack. Senator John Kennedy described the incident as a clear manifestation of evil, emphasizing the need for a unified response against such acts. The attack marks the deadliest IS-inspired assault on U.S. soil in years and highlights the use of vehicles as weapons in mass violence.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry urged people to avoid the crime scene, where coroner’s office vans were stationed as part of the investigation. Despite the tragedy, life in other parts of New Orleans continued with people carrying out their daily activities. President Biden condemned the attack as despicable and heinous, expressing condolences to the victims and their families. He reassured the nation’s commitment to combating violence and standing united against attacks on communities. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by international terrorism and the need for vigilance in preventing such atrocities.
