‘Not just an act of terrorism, this is evil’: New details in New Orleans attack that killed 15, injured 35

As New Orleans recovers from the devastating Bourbon Street attack, the FBI announced it is pursuing leads about potential accomplices and investigating the suspect’s ties to terrorist organizations.

Officials held a press conference today to provide critical updates on the New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, where a truck rammed into a Bourbon Street crowd, killing 15 people and injuring 35 others.

The FBI, leading the investigation, revealed new details about the suspect, Shamsud Din Jabbar, and his potential connections.

The FBI has called for the public’s help in piecing together the events leading up to the tragedy. Alethea Duncan, assistant special agent in charge of the FBI’s New Orleans field office, stated, “We’re aggressively pursuing every lead, including Jabbar’s known associates. If anyone had interactions with him in the last 72 hours, we urge you to contact the FBI.”

READ MORE: ‘We do not believe that Jabbar was solely responsible:’ New Orleans attack may involve more suspects

She emphasized the need for photos, videos, or information from witnesses and announced the establishment of a digital tip line and a hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Authorities disclosed that an ISIS flag was found on the truck’s trailer hitch, raising concerns about Jabbar’s affiliations.

“We are working to determine his connections to terrorist organizations,” Duncan added. Investigators are also analyzing evidence to identify potential accomplices, as they believe Jabbar may not have acted alone.

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell assured residents of enhanced safety measures and expressed gratitude for federal and state support, including an emergency declaration by Governor Jeff Landry.

The declaration allows the mobilization of military police to bolster security ahead of the Sugar Bowl and Mardi Gras.

Law enforcement officials have conducted extensive security sweeps in the French Quarter and around the Superdome to ensure public safety for upcoming events. Enhanced surveillance and barriers are being implemented as part of the city’s long-term security strategy.

Mayor Cantrell also highlighted the establishment of a victims’ fund by the Greater New Orleans Foundation to assist families impacted by the attack.

“New Orleans is a resilient city, and we stand united in the face of this tragedy,” she said.