Terrorist attack strikes New Orleans district

A terrorist attack in New Orleans' French Quarter on New Year's Day has left at least 15 people dead and dozens injured after a man deliberately drove a pickup truck into crowds on Bourbon Street and engaged in a shootout with police. The FBI has identified the attacker as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a US citizen from Texas and former military servicemember.

The assailant, who was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police, drove an electric Ford rental truck with an ISIS flag attached. Hours before the attack, he had posted videos expressing ISIS-inspired intentions to kill, according to President Biden. Two police officers were wounded but are in stable condition.

FBI Special Agent Alethea Duncan indicated the attack may have involved accomplices, citing multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found in the vehicle and French Quarter. The suspect, wearing body armor, was armed with a long gun equipped with a silencer. An Airbnb where Jabbar was staying later caught fire, prompting an ongoing investigation.

At least 35 people were hospitalized, and New Orleans Coroner Dr. Dwight McKenna stated identification of the deceased victims will take several days. The attack occurred in the crowded tourist district during New Year's celebrations, with witnesses describing a white truck speeding into pedestrians before the driver opened fire.

The FBI is leading the investigation with support from multiple federal agencies, including the ATF, Justice Department's National Security Division, and US Attorney's Office. President Biden has directed his administration to provide all necessary resources to the investigation.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry described the incident as "a horrific act of violence." As of now, no foreign terrorist organization has claimed responsibility for the attack. The investigation continues to determine potential accomplices and terrorist affiliations.