The suspect in the New Orleans New Year’s Day attack, which killed 10 people and injured at least 35, has been identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar. The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 am on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter, where large crowds had gathered to celebrate the New Year.
Authorities confirmed that Jabbar drove a pickup truck at high speed into the crowd before crashing and opening fire on responding police officers. Two officers were injured during the firefight, which ended with Jabbar being fatally shot.
The discovery of an ISIS flag among Jabbar’s possessions has intensified concerns over potential extremist links. Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick of the New Orleans Police Department described the attack as “deliberate and calculated.”
Reports indicate that Jabbar crossed the U.S.-Mexico border at the Eagle Pass checkpoint just two days prior to the attack. While his nationality has not yet been officially confirmed, authorities are investigating his movements and connections leading up to the incident.
Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were also found at the scene, according to FBI Special Agent Alethea Duncan. These devices are undergoing analysis to determine their viability. Duncan stated, “While there is no direct evidence of an organized terrorist event at this time, the presence of such items warrants further investigation.”
Mayor LaToya Cantrell initially referred to the attack as an act of terrorism. However, federal authorities have been cautious in making definitive statements regarding Jabbar’s motives or affiliations.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the attack and expressed his condolences to the victims’ families. In a statement, he pledged federal support for the investigation, emphasizing the need for vigilance in ensuring public safety.
The French Quarter remains under heightened security as local and federal agencies collaborate to piece together Jabbar’s background and intent. Residents and visitors have been advised to avoid the area until further notice.