Police Crime Scene
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A pickup truck drove through a crowded area of Bourbon Street in the French Quarter resulting in the deaths of ten individuals and numerous injuries.
The tragic incident unfolded on New Year's Day in New Orleans. The driver, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a US citizen from Texas, is being investigated by the FBI for what officials are labelling an orchestrated act of violence akin to terrorist attacks seen in other cities worldwide.
Witness accounts describe distressing scenes as Jabbar's white Ford pickup truck sped past barricades at high speed, endangering the lives of those gathered to celebrate the New Year. New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says that Jabbar's actions were “very intentional,” further compounding the chaos when he allegedly opened fire on police officers responding to the crash.
A long gun equipped with a suppressor was also found within the vehicle.
Local authorities are treating the event as a "terrorist attack," prompting an extensive investigation by the FBI. Reports indicate that a memo from 2017 had already hinted at potential vehicle attacks in the French Quarter. Despite recent warnings, many individuals at the celebration were unaware of the imminent threat.
As investigations progress, authorities have discovered an ISIS flag inside Jabbar's truck and are examining any connections he may have had with extremist groups. The FBI is also looking into possible accomplices, as the initial aftermath revealed the presence of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the vicinity, with investigators working diligently to assess whether these pose an active threat.
Reports indicate that victims of the truck attack suffered from injuries consistent with blunt force trauma, while two police officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire with Jabbar. They are reported to be in stable condition. The incident has elicited responses from across the nation, including condolences from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and a commitment from President Biden for a thorough investigation, asserting the importance of supporting local law enforcement.
"My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday," Biden said. "There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation's communities," Biden said, in part.
In the wake of this horrific event, New Orleans is proceeding with previously scheduled events, including the Sugar Bowl college football playoff game. President-elect Donald Trump has commented on the attack in a post on TruthSocial, saying "Our hearts are with all of the innocent victims and their loved ones, including the brave officers of the New Orleans Police Department."