NEW ORLEANS – A tragic incident struck New Orleans’ French Quarter early on New Year’s Day as a 42-year-old Texas man crashed a pickup truck into a crowd and then opened fire on police, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and injuring 35 others. The FBI is investigating the act as a potential act of terrorism.
The suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was a US citizen from Texas and died at the scene in a shootout with police, according to officials. An ISIS flag was found in the vehicle, prompting the FBI to explore possible terrorist affiliations.
Weapons, a potential explosive device, and other potential explosives were found in the French Quarter. The assailant was reportedly in full military gear.
US Representative Troy Carter noted that the death toll might have risen to 15, though this had not been officially confirmed.
“He was hell-bent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did,” said Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick at a press conference. The incident occurred around 3:15 am near the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets, a popular tourist area known for its vibrant nightlife.
The driver swerved around barricades and shot at police officers after crashing the vehicle. Two officers were wounded but are in stable condition.
Local media reported that the Sugar Bowl, an annual college football game held in New Orleans, might be postponed due to the attack. The city is also set to host the NFL Super Bowl on February 9.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell condemned the incident as a terrorist attack, and Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry assured coordination with various law enforcement agencies for a thorough investigation.
Videos and eyewitness accounts described the chaotic scene, with bodies and injuries scattered on the streets. Several injured victims were taken to hospitals across the city.
In the wake of the attack, President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump expressed their support for New Orleans in recovering from what Trump termed “an act of pure evil.