President Joe Biden has vowed to deploy all federal resources to investigate the New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans that resulted in the loss of 10 lives and injured over 30 others. The incident occurred when a driver plowed into crowds on Bourbon Street.
What Happened
“Our hearts are with the people of New Orleans after this despicable attack,” President Biden said in an evening address, noting that federal agencies are working to determine any potential ongoing threats.
Details of the Attacker
The FBI has identified the attacker as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old Texas native and former U.S. Army servicemember. Jabbar posted ISIS-inspired videos on social media shortly before the 3:15 a.m. attack. An ISIS flag was discovered in his rental vehicle, along with suspected explosive devices.
Response from New Orleans Authorities
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that the suspect was “hell-bent on creating carnage” when he drove at high speed into crowds near Canal and Bourbon streets. Officers killed Jabbar in an exchange of gunfire that left two police officers wounded but stable.
Connection to Las Vegas Incident
According to President Biden, the FBI is investigating Jabbar’s associations and whether an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside President-elect Donald Trump’s hotel in Las Vegas has any connection to the New Orleans attack.
Investigation Update
“Additionally, we are tracking an explosion involving a Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas. Law enforcement and the intelligence community are investigating this as well, including whether there is any possible connection to the attack in New Orleans. Thus far, there is nothing to report on that score at this time,” President Biden said.
Impact on the City
The attack came as the city prepared to host the Sugar Bowl college football quarterfinal between Georgia and Notre Dame. Officials postponed the game to Thursday. New Orleans is also set to host the Super Bowl in February and Mardi Gras celebrations in March.
Response from President Biden
“While this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated. It will always shine forth. We have seen that time and time again throughout its history, and I know we will see it again in the days and weeks ahead,” President Biden said.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI is investigating possible terrorist connections, with Assistant Special Agent Alethea Duncan confirming that additional explosive devices were found near the scene. Mayor LaToya Cantrell has characterized the incident as a “terrorist attack.”