New Orleans tragedy: Suspect’s background and attack details

Uncategorized , / Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

Sources BBC News

New Orleans, Louisiana – Fourteen people lost their lives, and at least 35 others were injured in a New Year’s Day attack when a man drove a pick-up truck into crowds in the city’s bustling French Quarter. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed by police following the incident.

Timeline of the Attack

The attack occurred at 3:15 AM local time on Bourbon Street. Surveillance footage shows Jabbar intentionally driving his rented Ford F-150 Lightning onto the sidewalk to evade a police vehicle before crashing into pedestrians. Armed with a firearm, he also shot at police, injuring two officers before being neutralized by gunfire. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with bodies strewn across the street as authorities secured the area.

Suspect’s Profile

Jabbar, a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, served in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2010. Following his discharge, he pursued a degree in computer information systems at Georgia State University and held roles at Deloitte and Ernst & Young. However, court records reveal financial struggles and personal issues, including a restraining order filed by his ex-wife.

Jabbar had a criminal record for minor offenses and reportedly expressed allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) in social media videos uploaded hours before the attack. Investigators are exploring his motives and affiliations, with an IS flag found in the vehicle.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities believe Jabbar acted alone and have not linked the incident to foreign terrorist groups. However, his videos hinted at intentions to illustrate a “war between believers and disbelievers.” Investigators are also probing potential connections to an explosion outside the Trump Hotel.

President Joe Biden condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for vigilance in combating terrorism.