New Orleans experienced a devastating attack on New Year's Day when Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a truck into crowds on Bourbon Street, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuring over 30 others, some critically. The incident occurred shortly after 3 a.m., during the height of New Year celebrations in the French Quarter. Jabbar, who acted alone according to an FBI investigation, wore "smart" glasses that could have livestreamed the attack had they been activated.
The attack left the community in shock and mourning. Jabbar's actions were not limited to the vehicular assault; he had reportedly placed homemade bombs hidden in coolers at two locations on Bourbon Street hours before the attack, suggesting a premeditated effort to maximize chaos. Fortunately, those devices did not detonate.
Authorities have been working tirelessly to piece together Jabbar's background and motivations. The FBI has reviewed over 1,000 tips related to the case and is investigating Jabbar's recent travels, which included a trip to Cairo, Egypt, and Ontario, Canada, last summer. Myrthil, an FBI spokesperson, stated,
"We have also tracked that Jabbar traveled to Cairo, Egypt, from June 22 until July 3 of 2023. A few days later he flew to Ontario, Canada, on July 10 and returned to the U.S. on July 13 of 2023."
Myrthil added,
"Our agents are getting answers as to where he went, who he met with and how those trips may or may not tie into his actions in our city in New Orleans."
Prior to the attack, Jabbar had visited New Orleans in October, where he recorded a bicycle tour of the French Quarter while wearing the same "smart" glasses. This has raised concerns about whether this visit was a reconnaissance mission.
In response to this horrific incident, families of the victims are being offered state police escorts for the remains of their loved ones to local destinations. The Greater New Orleans Foundation has established a fund to assist victims' families and donations can be made at gnof.org.
The community is now facing the tough road of mourning. Governor Jeff Landry has communicated with family members of each victim. He emphasized the importance of remembering those lost, stating,
"We will continue to ensure that their tragic loss is not forgotten."
Each victim will be honored with a separate day of mourning from Monday through January 23.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are expected to visit New Orleans on Monday to express their condolences and stand in solidarity with grieving families and community members. Mayor LaToya Cantrell expressed her anticipation for the presidential visit, noting,
"We will welcome President Joe Biden to the city Monday and will ask that a tactical expert be sent to New Orleans to recommend 'target hardening measures' to ensure safety during upcoming national events such as the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras."
Security upgrades are set to commence on Monday ahead of the Super Bowl scheduled for February 9. The tragic events have heightened awareness around public safety during large gatherings, leading officials to take proactive measures.
Christopher Raia, a local leader involved in supporting victims' families, remarked,
"We do this for the victims and their families, even though we know nothing we can do can take away their pain and grief."
As the investigation continues and the community begins to heal, the focus remains on honoring those lost and ensuring safety for future events in New Orleans.
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