New Orleans, Louisiana – The death toll from the tragic New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans has now climbed to at least 15 individuals, according to an announcement made by the FBI on Wednesday afternoon.
After the suspect in the attack was identified, the number of fatalities was updated, shedding light on the devastation caused by the incident. The perpetrator, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas, drove a Ford pickup truck into a crowd of people gathered on Bourbon Street to celebrate the new year.
Following the attack, an ISIS flag was discovered in the suspect’s vehicle, prompting the FBI to delve into the subject’s potential ties to terrorist organizations. Authorities are working diligently to determine any possible associations or affiliations that may shed light on the motives behind the tragic event.
Law enforcement officials, along with the FBI, are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in their investigation. A digital tip line has been set up, while individuals can also contact 1-800-CALL-FBI to provide any relevant details.
The FBI confirmed finding weapons and a potential IED in the suspect’s vehicle, with additional potential IEDs discovered in the French Quarter. Special agent bomb technicians are collaborating with law enforcement partners to assess the viability of these devices and ensure public safety.
During a press conference, authorities mentioned that they do not believe Jabbar acted alone in the attack, emphasizing the need for the community’s assistance in piecing together the events leading up to the tragedy.
The incident, now classified as an act of terrorism by the FBI, occurred in the early hours of Jan. 1 when the pickup truck careened through Bourbon Street, resulting in the deaths of 10 individuals and injuring nearly 35 others. Despite the chaos, the driver was involved in a police shootout that ultimately led to their demise.
Authorities have described the suspect’s actions as intentional, ruling out any possibility of a DUI situation. New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Chief Anne Kirkpatrick emphasized the severity and deliberate nature of the attack, stressing the suspect’s determination to inflict harm and chaos on innocent bystanders.