The FBI is expanding its investigation into the deadly New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, announcing that they believe the driver, Shamsud Din Jabbar, did not act alone. The incident, which is now being treated as an act of terrorism, left at least 10 people dead and over 30 injured.
The attack unfolded early on New Year’s Day when Jabbar drove a pickup truck into a crowd celebrating on Bourbon Street. Police shot and killed the driver at the scene, which quickly devolved from celebration to chaos. Authorities are working to ensure there are no further threats while piecing together the details of the event.
A shocking discovery further complicates the investigation. Investigators found an Islamic State group flag attached to the trailer hitch of Jabbar’s truck. Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered firearms and pipe bombs concealed within coolers and wired for remote detonation, along with a corresponding remote control. This suggests a level of premeditation beyond a lone-wolf attack.
The FBI is urging the public to assist in the investigation by providing any videos, photos, or information related to the incident, particularly any interactions individuals may have had with Jabbar in the 72 hours preceding the attack. A digital tipline and an emergency hotline (1-800-CALL-FBI) have been established for public tips.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are actively working to identify any accomplices. The FBI stated during a news conference, “We do not believe that Jabbar was solely responsible. We are aggressively running down every lead including those of his known associates.”