New Orleans began 2025 with a horrific tragedy as a truck attack in the city’s bustling French Quarter left 15 people dead and dozens injured. However, The attacker, identified as US Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar, deliberately drove into a crowd of New Year’s revelers before opening fire.
What Happened?
The attack occurred in the early hours of January 1 at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets, one of the city’s most iconic tourist hubs. Jabbar drove a white pickup truck at high speed into a crowd of partygoers celebrating the New Year. After crashing the vehicle, he opened fire, injuring two police officers. The incident ended in a deadly shootout between Jabbar and law enforcement officers.
The FBI confirmed that the attacker rented the truck using a car-sharing app. Authorities also recovered two improvised explosive devices from the vehicle.
Casualties and Injuries
Initially, authorities reported 10 deaths, but the toll later rose to 15, as confirmed by the New Orleans coroner’s office. Dozens of others were injured in the attack, including two police officers who are now in stable condition. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, and emergency responders worked through the night to manage the chaos.
The Suspect: Shamsud-Din Jabbar
The attacker was identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a US Army veteran. Jabbar served over a decade in the military as a human resource and IT specialist. However, After leaving the military, Jabbar earned a computing degree from Georgia State University and worked as a real estate agent in Houston, Texas.
Authorities believe Jabbar acted with intent to cause mass casualties. His vehicle flew a Daesh flag, and officials revealed he had shared extremist content online.
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Possible Motive
While the exact motive remains unclear, President Joe Biden stated that Jabbar appeared to have been “inspired by Daesh.” The FBI is treating the attack as a possible act of terrorism. Investigators are reviewing his online activity, which reportedly included videos endorsing extremist ideologies.
Impact on the City
The attack occurred in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, a historic area known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural landmarks.
Officials and law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to ensure safety and restore a sense of normalcy.
This deadly incident has cast a shadow over the festive spirit of the French Quarter, leaving a city known for its resilience to grapple with grief and seek justice for the victims.
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