A tragic truck attack in New Orleans during New Year’s celebrations left 15 dead and many injured, prompting an FBI investigation into possible terrorism.
New Orleans: A horrific incident unfolded during New Year’s celebrations when a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd, killing 15 people. The driver, identified as Shimsud-Din Jabbar, was shot dead by police after he crashed through a blockade.
The FBI is treating this as a terrorist act and believes Jabbar didn’t act alone. They found guns and explosives in his truck, raising serious concerns about the attack’s planning.
Jabbar, a 42-year-old from Houston, managed to navigate through Bourbon Street, which was bustling with partygoers. He was armed and wearing body armor, and he even fired a rifle from the truck while displaying an Islamic State flag.
After the chaos, investigators discovered several explosive devices around the area, including a pipe bomb left near police cars. Surveillance footage showed individuals planting these devices, but they’ve since been cleared of involvement.
Jabbar had been staying in a rental home nearby, which was later found to have been set on fire. Authorities discovered bomb-making materials there, indicating a deeper level of planning.
Interestingly, Jabbar had a military background, having served in the Army for 13 years. Friends and family noted a change in his behavior in recent years, which raised concerns.
As for the victims, the attack injured over 30 people, with several fatalities already identified. The community is mourning the loss of young lives, and many are left in shock over the violence that marred the celebrations.