Death toll rises to 15 in New Orleans truck attack as FBI probes accomplices

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

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The death toll from the New Orleans pickup truck attack during New Year’s celebrations has risen to 15, with over 30 others injured, according to Coroner Dr. Dwight McKenna. He stated that autopsies are underway, and victim identifications will be released after notifying their families.

The FBI identified the attacker as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran and Texas resident linked to ISIS. Jabbar drove a rented truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street before engaging in a shootout with police. Authorities discovered multiple weapons, an ISIS flag, and explosive devices in the truck. Additional devices were found nearby and safely neutralized.

FBI officials believe Jabbar did not act alone. Surveillance footage reportedly shows individuals planting explosives before the attack. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend them. A search is ongoing at a Houston property linked to the suspect.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency, mobilizing resources to secure the city. The Sugar Bowl football game has been postponed as a precaution.

President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it “despicable” and vowing full federal support for the investigation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also expressed condolences and solidarity with the victims and their families.

As investigations continue, officials are working to ensure public safety and bring all involved to justice. Updates are expected from the FBI as the situation develops