New Orleans Terror Attack: 15 Dead, FBI Investigating ISIS Links
A horrific act of violence shook New orleans on January 1, 2025, leaving 15 dead and over 30 injured in what authorities are investigating as a terrorist attack. The incident, which unfolded in the heart of the city’s famed French Quarter on Bourbon Street, transformed a celebratory New Year’s Day into a scene of chaos and devastation.
According to Orleans Parish Coroner Dr. dwight McKenna, the death toll from the intentional vehicular attack has reached 15. The driver, identified by the FBI as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din jabbar, a U.S. citizen and Army veteran from Texas, drove a rented pickup truck onto the sidewalk, bypassing security measures intended to prevent such attacks. ”This is not just an act of terrorism. This is evil,” declared New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick.
The FBI’s New Orleans field office confirmed that Jabbar’s truck displayed the flag of the Islamic State group. Assistant Special agent in Charge Alethea Duncan stated, “We don’t beleive Jabbar was solely responsible.” The investigation is underway to determine potential accomplices and affiliations with terrorist organizations. investigators discovered several improvised explosive devices, including homemade bombs, further intensifying concerns about the scale and planning of the attack.
Witnesses described scenes of horror as pedestrians scrambled for safety, seeking refuge in nearby establishments. One man recounted watching in disbelief as authorities covered his friend’s body after she was thrown approximately 30 feet. The attack occurred while a barrier system designed to prevent vehicle attacks was undergoing repairs in preparation for the upcoming Super Bowl.
“My heart goes out to the victims and thier families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday,” President Joe Biden said in a statement from Delaware.
jabbar’s military background is also under scrutiny. He served in the Army from 2007 to 2020, including a deployment to Afghanistan. He was discharged with the rank of squad sergeant.Following the attack,police engaged Jabbar in a shootout,resulting in injuries to two officers who are now in stable condition. Authorities recovered a handgun and an AR-style rifle from the scene.
“For those who don’t believe in objective evil, you only have to look at what happened in our city this morning,” said Republican Senator John Kennedy. “I would be very surprised if this doesn’t disgust every right-minded American,” he added.
Governor Jeff Landry urged residents to avoid the area, which remained an active crime scene for hours following the attack. Despite the tragedy, life in parts of the city continued, a stark contrast to the devastation on Bourbon Street. The FBI’s investigation is ongoing, and the nation awaits further details as authorities work to uncover the full extent of this heinous act.
national Tragedy Prompts Presidential Condolences
In a statement released earlier today, President Joe Biden offered his deepest condolences to the victims and their families following a devastating incident that unfolded during a national holiday party. The President’s words conveyed profound sorrow and a firm commitment to justice.
The President’s statement emphasized the gravity of the situation, underscoring the nation’s collective grief. “My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday,” Biden said. The statement served as a powerful expression of national unity and resolve in the face of tragedy.
Biden’s words also carried a strong message against violence and intolerance. He declared, “There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our national communities.” This resolute stance reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
The incident has understandably shaken the nation, prompting widespread calls for unity and understanding. The President’s statement serves as a beacon of hope and reassurance during this difficult time, offering comfort to those affected and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to justice and healing.
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