A tragic New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans claimed 14 lives and left at least 35 injured as a pick-up truck plowed through revelers in the French Quarter. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was a former US Army soldier who reportedly had ties to the Islamic State (IS) group.
The FBI has revealed that Jabbar used Meta smart glasses to scope out the area before the attack and wore them during the incident. While the glasses, capable of recording and live streaming, were found on him, they were not used to broadcast the assault.
Timeline of the Attack
At 3:15 AM local time, Jabbar drove an electric pick-up truck through crowds on Bourbon Street. Wearing a ballistic vest and helmet, he exited the vehicle and opened fire on police officers, injuring two before being fatally shot by responding officers.
Hours earlier, Jabbar planted two IEDs in coolers on Bourbon Street. Although a transmitter to detonate the explosives was found in his vehicle, the bombs failed to detonate. Bomb-making materials were also discovered at his Airbnb in New Orleans and his residence in Houston, Texas.
Suspect’s Background and Motive
Jabbar, a US Army veteran from Texas, had a complex history. Raised Muslim, he had only recently returned to the faith. He had a degree in computer information systems and worked in IT, including roles at Deloitte and Ernst & Young.
Investigators believe Jabbar acted alone but professed allegiance to IS in online videos recorded during his drive from Houston to New Orleans. He expressed extremist beliefs and detailed his intentions to harm, which he later redirected toward the public.
Heightened Security in New Orleans
In response to the attack, New Orleans has increased security measures, deploying barricades and restricting vehicle access in tourist hotspots like Bourbon and Canal streets. Retractable bollards, previously damaged during Mardi Gras celebrations, are being restored ahead of key events like Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl.
President Biden’s Visit
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are scheduled to visit New Orleans to meet with victims’ families and the community.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as new details emerge.
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