The suspect in the deadly New Orleans car-ramming attack has been identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen originally from Texas. Jabbar, who previously served in the U.S. Army, was found to be in possession of an ISIS flag, which has raised concerns about possible extremist motives.
The attack unfolded in the early hours of January 1, 2024, when Jabbar drove a rented truck through Bourbon Street, targeting pedestrians and firing an assault rifle into the crowd. The rampage ended when the vehicle crashed, and Jabbar exited the truck, continuing to engage police officers with his rifle. Authorities confirmed that Jabbar was wearing body armor during the attack.
The tragic incident resulted in 10 deaths, including two Israeli nationals, and left at least 30 others injured. Two New Orleans police officers were wounded in the gunfire exchange but are reported to be in stable condition. Jabbar was fatally shot by law enforcement at the scene.
Further investigation revealed that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found at the scene and nearby areas, raising fears of additional threats. Bomb squad units are actively working to secure the area.
Authorities have also linked Jabbar to an Airbnb rental in the St. Roch neighborhood, where a fire broke out the morning after the attack. Investigators are looking into potential connections between the fire and the attack.
Local residents have expressed concerns about the security measures in place during the New Year’s celebrations, with some criticizing the use of flimsy barricades on Bourbon Street.
The FBI has taken charge of the investigation, classifying the incident as a terrorist attack. Officials are examining Jabbar’s links to ISIS and whether he traveled internationally in the days leading up to the event. The truck used in the attack was rented via the Turo platform.
Authorities continue to urge the public to avoid the affected areas while the investigation progresses. A media briefing is set for 11:00 a.m. CST to provide more updates. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the FBI.
This devastating event has left New Orleans in mourning and raised questions about the security protocols in place during major events.
