Death toll rises to 15: FBI investigates New Orleans truck attack as terrorism

Officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are investigating the early Wednesday (Jan. 1) morning truck attack in New Orleans as an act of terrorism.

They are exploring potential connections to terrorist organizations, believing that the suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar, may not be "solely responsible" for the incident.

As of now, the death toll has reached 15, with 25 others hospitalized, according to U.S. House Representative Troy Carter. However, New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed that she could only officially verify 10 deaths, with several individuals suffering life-threatening injuries.

The FBI reported that guns, two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) wired for remote detonation, and an Islamic State group flag were discovered in Jabbar's vehicle. Surveillance footage has allegedly captured three men and a woman placing some of the IEDs in the area.

Jabbar, a U.S. Army veteran, was shot dead by police after he rammed the truck into New Year revelers. According to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), Jabbar opened fire on responding officers after the vehicle came to a stop. Two police officers were shot but are currently in stable condition.

The truck, a Ford F-150 Lightning, was rented through the Turo app and bore Texas plates. The attack occurred around 3:15 a.m. at the intersection of Bourbon Street and Iberville in the French Quarter, a heavily crowded area known for its vibrant nightlife and tourism.

Police Chief Kirkpatrick emphasized the intentional nature of the attack, stating, "This man was trying to run over as many people as he could." She noted that over 300 officers were present in the area at the time, highlighting the premeditated behavior of the perpetrator who circumvented barricades to carry out the attack.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to uncover any additional suspects or motives.

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