The individual responsible for the deadly attack in New Orleans on Wednesday was in possession of an ISIS flag at the time of the incident, according to two law enforcement sources.
One source also confirmed that several suspected explosive devices were discovered in an ice chest within the pickup truck used in the assault.
The FBI, now leading the investigation, has officially classified the event as an “act of terrorism.” Their focus extends to exploring any connections the suspect might have, including political or religious affiliations, and whether they were linked to any recognized terrorist groups.
Background on ISIS:
ISIS saw the collapse of its last stronghold in Syria in 2019, marking the end of the caliphate it had proclaimed in 2014. Despite this significant setback, the group has since expanded into Africa, orchestrating numerous attacks there, as well as in Iraq and Syria.
Recent U.S. military actions have been aimed at suppressing a potential ISIS resurgence in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad earlier in January, targeting ISIS camps and operatives.
One of the most lethal attacks associated with ISIS in recent times occurred in March when gunmen attacked a concert venue near Moscow, resulting in over 130 fatalities.
ISIS continues to motivate lone attackers globally, including in the U.S. For instance, in November, the FBI arrested a man from Texas for spreading ISIS propaganda and plotting a significant attack reminiscent of 9/11. Additionally, in August, an ISIS sympathizer reportedly planned a suicide bombing at a Taylor Swift concert in Austria.
