On New Year's Day, a tragic incident unfolded in New Orleans as a driver plowed a pickup truck into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street, resulting in the deaths of 10 individuals. The FBI has launched an investigation into the incident, considering it a potential act of terrorism.
Following the vehicular assault, the driver exited the truck and engaged in gunfire with responding officers, as reported by the New Orleans police.
Key Developments:
- An Islamic State group flag was discovered in the vehicle used by the attacker, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas. The FBI is delving into possible ties with terrorist organizations.
- Law enforcement officials have confirmed the identity of the assailant as Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, who was fatally shot by police after the attack.
- Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has advised the public to steer clear of the French Quarter due to the ongoing investigation.
- The Superdome, slated to host a College Football Playoff quarterfinal game, is under lockdown for security sweeps in the aftermath of the deadly truck attack.
The tragic incident has cast a shadow over the city's New Year celebrations, prompting heightened security measures and a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies. The FBI's Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Alethea Duncan, confirmed the presence of at least one suspected improvised explosive device at the scene, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
