Key Facts
Incident Overview: A driver struck New Year’s revelers in New Orleans’ Bourbon Street with a pickup truck early Wednesday, leaving at least 10 dead and dozens injured.
Suspect Details: Police identified the driver as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas.
Police Encounter: Jabbar reportedly opened fire on police after exiting the vehicle. He was killed in a brief shootout.
Evidence of Terrorism
ISIS Flag Found: Authorities discovered an ISIS flag in the suspect's vehicle.
Explosives: Multiple potential explosive devices, including a suspected IED, were found in Jabbar’s truck and the French Quarter vicinity.
Investigation Update: The FBI is treating the case as a terrorist attack and is probing Jabbar’s affiliations with extremist groups.
Impact and Response
Casualties: 35 individuals were hospitalized, with injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Officer Injuries: Two police officers were hurt, though both are in stable condition.
Statements from Officials: President Joe Biden, President-elect Donald Trump, and Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed condolences and pledged full federal support for the investigation.
Security Concerns
Barrier Replacement Issues: New Orleans authorities admitted that vehicle barriers meant to protect Bourbon Street were being replaced at the time of the attack.
Expert Critique: Security professionals questioned the vulnerability of the area, citing inadequacies in perimeter protection.
Comparative Measures: Former FBI agent Chris Swecker highlighted stricter security practices in Times Square as a potential benchmark.
Broader Reactions
Sugar Bowl Security: The Sugar Bowl Committee affirmed their commitment to ensuring safety at the game later that day.
Community Solidarity: Local leaders, including Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and Sen. John Kennedy, urged resilience and called for justice.
Public Warnings: Authorities advised residents to avoid the area while investigations continue.
Company Involvement
Rental Vehicle: Jabbar rented the Ford truck through Turo, which is cooperating with the FBI.
Turo Statement: The company expressed shock and emphasized that no prior red flags were present in Jabbar's profile.
This developing story underscores the persistent threat of violence and the importance of vigilant security measures during high-profile events. Investigations remain active, with updates expected in the coming days.
Commentaires