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NEW ORLEANS (CHATNEWSTV) — A horrifying attack on New Year’s Day left 10 dead and dozens injured in the heart of New Orleans, prompting federal authorities to investigate potential ties to terrorism.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland issued a statement Wednesday morning, condemning the tragedy and vowing swift justice.
“The country woke up this morning to news of a terrible tragedy in New Orleans that killed at least 10 people and injured many more,” Garland said. “My heart is broken for those who began their year by learning people they love were killed in this horrific attack, and my prayers are with the dozens who were injured, including the New Orleans Police Department Officers who risked their lives to save others.”
The attack unfolded at approximately 3:15 a.m. on Bourbon Street when a man identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, of Texas, drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd celebrating the New Year. Jabbar then exited the vehicle and opened fire on responding law enforcement officers, who returned fire and killed him at the scene, authorities said. Two officers were injured and are recovering in a local hospital.
An ISIS flag was found in the truck, raising suspicions of the attack being ideologically motivated. The FBI is leading the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Justice Department’s National Security Division, and local authorities.
“Weapons and potential explosive devices were located in the vehicle,” the FBI said in a statement. “Our bomb technicians are working to ensure public safety and determine the viability of these devices.”
Authorities are also investigating several potential improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found in the French Quarter, though it remains unclear if they were linked to Jabbar.
As investigations continue, Garland reaffirmed the Justice Department’s commitment to uncovering the motive behind the attack. “The FBI, the ATF, and all our law enforcement partners will deploy every available resource to bring answers to the victims and hold anyone responsible accountable,” he said.
