Photo: Collected
At least 15 people were killed and dozens injured in New Orleans, United States, after a man drove a pick-up truck into New Year's Eve crowds in an attack authorities have linked to ISIL (ISIS). The incident occurred amid ongoing New Year's celebrations on Bourbon Street, known for its bars and music venues, which were packed with partygoers at the time.
US President Joe Biden stated on Wednesday that the FBI informed him the suspect had shared videos on social media, showing he was inspired by the Middle East-based militant group. "To everyone in New Orleans who is mourning, I mourn with you," President Biden said from Camp David. "Our nation stands with you in grief."
Biden also mentioned ongoing investigations into any connections between this incident and the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck near a hotel owned by President-elect Donald Trump in Las Vegas on Wednesday. However, he said no link had been confirmed yet.
The FBI identified the suspect as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar and revealed that an ISIL flag was found attached to his truck. Authorities are exploring Jabbar's affiliations with terrorist organizations, as stated by Alethea Duncan, assistant special agent at the New Orleans FBI.
"We do not believe Jabbar acted alone," Duncan said, adding that authorities were investigating his associates and connections. Explosive devices were also discovered in the French Quarter but have been neutralized.
The attack occurred around 3:15 am (09:15 GMT) at Canal and Bourbon streets in New Orleans's historic French Quarter, a lively area crowded with pedestrians.
According to the New Orleans Police Department, Jabbar struck multiple people with his vehicle before crashing. He then opened fire at responding officers and was fatally shot by police.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said Jabbar, a US citizen and army veteran, was focused on causing as much harm as possible. Two officers were injured in the shootout but are in stable condition. Videos posted online captured scenes of panic as people fled the area after the attack.
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