New Orleans Terror Attack: FBI Names Suspect Behind New Year’s Bloodbath
Texas Man Drives Into Crowds, Sparks Chaos
The FBI has identified the suspect who turned New Year’s Day celebrations in New Orleans into a nightmare. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US citizen from Texas, is accused of ploughing a Ford pick-up truck into packed crowds in the French Quarter. The horrifying rampage at around 3:15 a.m. left at least 10 dead and over 35 injured.
Witnesses described utter mayhem as the truck barreled through the busy street. After the deadly crash, Jabbar got out and exchanged gunfire with police before being shot dead at the scene.
ISIS Links and Deadly Explosives Found
The FBI revealed shocking details: Jabbar’s vehicle held an ISIS flag, weapons, and an improvised explosive device (IED). Bomb squads also found other possible devices nearby. “FBI’s Special Agent Bomb Technicians are working with law enforcement partners to assess and defuse these threats,” the agency said.
Authorities are probing Jabbar’s connections to ISIS and other terrorist groups. The pick-up was reportedly rented, with investigators racing to track down how it was obtained.
Top Democrats and Republicans Respond
President Joe Biden slammed the attack as “an act of pure evil”, pledging full federal support for New Orleans’ investigation and recovery.
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump called it “another tragic example of the dangers of terrorism” and pushed for tighter immigration controls and national security measures.
City On Edge as Investigation Rages
The French Quarter remains sealed off as bomb squads comb the area. A news briefing is due later to update on security and prevention steps. US correspondent James Matthews described the victims’ injuries as “horrific” and warned the death toll may climb.
New Orleans residents are left shaken, mourning the dead and fearing for their safety after this brutal attack.
