Desk:In a tragic incident in New Orleans, 15 people lost their lives when a man drove a vehicle into a crowded area. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has classified the attack as a potential act of terrorism. Items linked to a terrorist organization were recovered from the scene. The attacker was shot dead by police on the spot.
Attacker Identified
The FBI identified the attacker as 42-year-old Shamsuddin Jabbar, a resident of Texas. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack. Jabbar was reportedly driving a rented Ford pickup truck. The investigation is focused on how he accessed the vehicle and whether he had any accomplices.
Evidence Found
Officials confirmed the recovery of an ISIS flag from the vehicle. Additionally, weapons and potential improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found inside. FBI spokesperson Althea Duncan stated, “We are treating this as an act of terrorism and are working to identify all possible collaborators.” She also appealed to the public for information, particularly from anyone who interacted with Jabbar in the past 72 hours.
The Incident
The attack occurred early Wednesday at 3:15 a.m. in the bustling Bourbon Street area of the French Quarter. Jabbar drove into a crowd before engaging in a shootout with police officers, during which he was killed. Two officers sustained injuries but are reported to be in stable condition.
Weapons, including a handgun and an AR-style rifle, were recovered at the scene. Authorities are also conducting searches for additional explosive devices in the area.
Official Statements
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell described the event as a “terrorist attack,” while Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick said, “The attacker intended to cause maximum carnage.” She confirmed that Jabbar deliberately aimed to run over as many people as possible.
This incident occurred just hours before the college football quarterfinal Allstate Bowl at Caesar Superdome, where thousands were expected to gather.