Thu Jan 02 21:10:04 UTC 2025: **New Orleans New Year’s Attack: 14 Dead, 35 Injured in IS-Inspired Rampage**
NEW ORLEANS, LA – A horrific attack in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter on New Year’s Day left 14 people dead and at least 35 injured. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran and US citizen, intentionally drove a rented electric truck into crowds on Bourbon Street at approximately 3:15 AM.
Jabbar, who was later killed in a shootout with police, had reportedly posted videos online hours before the attack declaring his allegiance to the Islamic State group (IS) and expressing his intent to kill. An IS flag was found in his vehicle. The FBI confirmed they are investigating Jabbar’s potential affiliations with terrorist groups, though no foreign terrorist organization has claimed responsibility.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene with dead and injured people scattered across the street. Among the victims are former Princeton University football star Martin Tiger Bech and aspiring nurse Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux. Several other victims have been identified, including Hubert Gauthreaux, Reggie Hunter, Nicole Perez, Matthew Tenedorio, and Kareem Badawi.
Jabbar’s background includes service in Afghanistan, work at prominent accounting firms (Deloitte and Ernst & Young), and a history of financial troubles and legal issues, including a recent divorce and a restraining order. The FBI initially investigated the possibility of accomplices, but now believes Jabbar acted alone.
The attack has prompted questions about security measures in the French Quarter. City officials confirmed that security bollards were being replaced in preparation for the upcoming Super Bowl. The Sugar Bowl college football game, scheduled for Wednesday, was postponed in the aftermath of the tragedy. President Biden has been briefed on the incident. The FBI is also investigating whether the attack is linked to a separate vehicle explosion outside the Trump Hotel.
The investigation is ongoing.
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