In the early hours of New Year's Day, a shocking attack unfolded in New Orleans, Louisiana, as ten individuals were killed and at least 35 others injured when a man drove into crowds gathered on the iconic Bourbon Street. The incident occurred at approximately 03:15 local time, when a white Ford F-150 Lightning truck deliberately veered onto the sidewalk to bypass a police vehicle, crashing into pedestrians.
Police describe the attack as "very intentional," and New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick stated, “This man was trying to run over as many people as he possibly could.” The attacker, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran and US citizen from Texas, was also armed and opened fire on law enforcement, injuring two officers before being shot dead by police.
Witnesses recounted scenes of chaos in the aftermath, with one individual, Whit Davis from Shreveport, Louisiana, describing being trapped in a bar and witnessing the grim aftermath of dead and injured bodies strewn across the street once police secured the area.
The FBI has confirmed Jabbar's identity and noted that a flag associated with the Islamic State group was found in the truck, prompting investigations into potential affiliations with terrorist organizations. Additionally, suspected improvised explosive devices were uncovered in the vicinity. Jabbar's criminal record includes traffic offenses and theft, and he held a degree in Computer Information Systems from Georgia State University.
In terms of victims, police reported that at least ten people lost their lives, with 35 others injured. Although their identities have not been publicly disclosed, the University of Georgia confirmed that one of its students was critically hurt, and the Israeli government acknowledged that two nationals were among the wounded. Most victims appear to have been locals in town for New Year festivities or the postponed Sugar Bowl, a key American college football event set to occur nearby.
Bourbon Street, the site of the attack, is a renowned nightlife district in New Orleans' French Quarter, frequented by tourists and locals. This vibrant area, famous for its live music and bustling atmosphere, draws millions of visitors annually, particularly during the Mardi Gras celebrations, highlighting the devastating impact this incident may have on the community's spirit and sense of safety.
