Federal authorities confirmed Thursday that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the 42-year-old Army veteran behind the New Year’s truck attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, acted alone. Surveillance footage revealed Jabbar changing clothes after planting explosive devices in an effort to mislead investigators into believing there were multiple attackers.
Jabbar’s rampage left 14 people dead and 35 injured. He drove a rented truck through crowds along a three-block stretch of Bourbon Street before exiting the vehicle and opening fire on police. Officers returned fire, killing him on the scene. Law enforcement also discovered two improvised explosive devices in coolers, which were safely neutralized.
FBI spokesperson Christopher Raia labeled the attack a premeditated act of terrorism, citing Jabbar’s online posts proclaiming allegiance to ISIS and detailing his motivations. Videos on his social media suggested he had initially planned to target family and friends but opted for a public attack to gain greater attention. An ISIS flag was found in the truck.
While investigators are still analyzing Jabbar’s electronic devices for any communications with others, they have found no evidence of accomplices. More than 400 tips have been submitted, and the FBI is urging anyone who knew Jabbar or saw him in New Orleans or Texas to come forward.
Bourbon Street has since reopened, with Mayor LaToya Cantrell assuring the public of its safety as the city moves forward with large-scale events like the Sugar Bowl.
