Thu Jan 02 04:03:02 UTC 2025: **Massacre in New Orleans French Quarter: At Least 10 Dead in Terrorist Attack**
NEW ORLEANS, LA – A horrific attack in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter left at least 10 people dead and 35 injured early Wednesday morning. A 42-year-old Texas man, identified as Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, drove a pickup truck at high speed into crowds celebrating on Bourbon Street around 3:15 a.m., before crashing and engaging in a shootout with police. Jabbar, a U.S. citizen, died in the exchange of gunfire.
The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism. Authorities reported finding an Islamic State flag, weapons, and a potential improvised explosive device in Jabbar’s truck, along with other potential bombs discovered in the French Quarter. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that Jabbar “was hellbent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did,” having circumvented security barricades.
The attack occurred near Canal and Bourbon Streets, impacting celebrations in the area. Two police officers were among the injured but are reported to be in stable condition. Many visitors were in New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl game. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area as investigations continue. The incident has left the city in shock and mourning, bringing a tragic end to New Year’s celebrations.
First Piper 