A horrific attack on New Year’s Eve in New Orleans has left at least 15 people dead and dozens more injured after a man, identified as US military veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar, plowed a pick-up truck into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street. The FBI is investigating the attack as an act of terrorism, as the suspect reportedly expressed a desire to kill inspired by ISIS.
The incident occurred early on Wednesday morning when the truck drove at high speed into the crowd, with the driver swerving around barricades in an intentional manner. The suspect, Jabbar, was killed in a police shootout after firing at responding officers.
Jabbar, a 42-year-old US military veteran, had served in Afghanistan and was found with weapons, potential explosive devices, and an ISIS flag in his vehicle. The FBI is working to determine his potential affiliations with terrorist organizations. New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno described the suspect’s actions as intentional, with the driver aiming to cause maximum harm.
The incident took place in the heart of the city’s famous French Quarter, known for its bars, restaurants, and jazz history. The attack resulted in the cancellation of the Sugar Bowl college football playoff game and a heightened security presence in the city. Authorities are investigating if the incident in New Orleans is linked to a Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas.
President Joe Biden has offered full federal support to the city, with law enforcement prepared for ongoing investigations. The incident has been condemned as an act of pure evil, with the FBI working to determine the motive behind the attack. Bourbon Street remains closed off as the investigation continues.
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