NEW ORLEANS — New Year’s celebrations turned into tragedy when a pickup truck rammed into a crowd in the French Quarter early Wednesday, killing 10 people and injuring 35 others before the driver was fatally shot by police. Authorities have confirmed the attack as an act of terrorism.
Details of the Attack
Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen and Army veteran, drove his vehicle onto the crowded Bourbon Street sidewalk, bypassing police barricades designed to protect revelers. After ramming through the crowd, Jabbar exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers before being killed in a shootout.
- Weapons and Explosives Found: Investigators recovered two firearms, an improvised explosive device (IED), and pipe bombs wired for remote detonation concealed in coolers. A remote control linked to the explosives was found inside the truck.
- Symbol of Terror: An Islamic State flag was attached to the vehicle’s trailer hitch, further confirming the attack’s motive.
Casualties and Survivors
The victims include locals and tourists who had gathered in the iconic French Quarter to celebrate. Among the injured is a University of Georgia student who remains in critical condition. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with bodies strewn along the street and the sounds of gunfire adding to the panic.
One witness, Zion Parsons, recounted the harrowing moment: “I turned my head and saw a vehicle barreling toward us. It hit my friend, and her leg was twisted in a way I can’t even describe.”
Investigation and Ongoing Concerns
The FBI has launched a comprehensive investigation, treating the attack as a coordinated act of terrorism. Surveillance footage captured three men and a woman placing explosive devices in the area, leading authorities to believe Jabbar did not act alone.
Assistant Special Agent Alethea Duncan of the FBI’s New Orleans field office emphasized, “This was not a lone act. We are actively pursuing leads to identify accomplices.”
City and National Response
- Event Postponed: The Sugar Bowl quarterfinal between Georgia and Notre Dame has been rescheduled for Thursday, with enhanced security measures in place.
- State of Emergency: Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has requested a state of emergency through February 9, the date of the 2025 Super Bowl in New Orleans.
- Presidential Remarks: President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it “senseless violence” and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.
A City in Mourning
The vibrant French Quarter has been left reeling from the incident. Residents and tourists alike have expressed shock and sorrow, with many describing the eerie silence that now fills the once-lively streets.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick reflected on the tragedy, stating, “This is not just an act of terrorism. This is evil.”
Authorities urge anyone with information about the attack or potential accomplices to contact the FBI immediately. As the investigation continues, the nation stands united in mourning the loss of innocent lives.