The FBI has determined that the suspect in the New Orleans New Year’s Day attack, which claimed 14 lives, acted alone in what has been described as a “premeditated and evil act.”
The investigation initially suggested multiple individuals might have been involved, but updated findings identify Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US citizen, as the sole perpetrator. According to the FBI, Jabbar drove a pick-up truck into a crowded New Orleans street, exited the vehicle, and began shooting. He was fatally shot by police at the scene. An Islamic State (IS) flag was discovered inside his vehicle.
Improvised Explosive Devices Found
Police reported discovering two IEDs placed in coolers near Bourbon Street, an area bustling with New Year’s celebrations. Surveillance footage shows Jabbar positioning the devices before the attack, according to FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia.
Raia confirmed that Jabbar acted alone but noted the investigation remains ongoing, with over 400 public tips and hundreds of hours of surveillance footage under review.
Timeline of Events
Jabbar rented a Ford F-150 in Houston, Texas, on December 30 and drove to New Orleans the following evening. Social media videos posted by Jabbar between 01:29 and 03:02 on December 31 revealed his allegiance to IS and his intent to escalate a “war between believers and disbelievers.”
Authorities believe Jabbar manufactured explosive devices in a New Orleans Airbnb, which remains an active crime scene. Three phones and two laptops were recovered for analysis.
Victims and Injuries
The death toll stands at 15, including Jabbar, with 39 others injured. Among the deceased were former Princeton University football player Martin “Tiger” Bech and aspiring nurse Matthew Tenedorio. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and carnage as Jabbar's truck plowed through crowds.
Security Measures and Public Reassurance
Bourbon Street reopened ahead of the Sugar Bowl, with officials ensuring public safety. Mayor LaToya Cantrell emphasized the city’s readiness for large-scale events despite the tragedy.
Ongoing Investigations
The FBI is also examining potential links to an unrelated Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, though no definitive connection has been established.
Background on the Attacker
Jabbar, a Texas native and former US Army serviceman, had a history of financial difficulties and legal troubles. He studied computer information systems at George State University and worked for Deloitte and Ernst & Young.
President Joe Biden condemned the attack, expressing anger and frustration. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry called it a "horrific act of violence."
Witnesses, including residents and visitors, described the aftermath as "horrific," with many attempting to help victims amid the chaos.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to piece together Jabbar’s motives and actions leading up to the attack.
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