NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Bodycam footage released by the New Orleans Police Department illustrates the harrowing moments during which Shamsud-Din Jabbar, inspired by the Islamic State, opened fire on police from inside his truck after executing a deadly rampage on New Year's Day. The incident, which left 14 dead and dozens injured, occurred around 3:15 a.m. on Bourbon Street, as Jabbar drove his white F-150 through a police blockade and into a crowd of revelers. Officers were caught off-guard as jabbar shot at them while barricaded behind the airbag.

The released footage shows Officer Christian Beyer and Officer Jacobie Jordan standing by the open driver’s side door, guns drawn, as they confronted Jabbar. Beyer is observed identifying himself and requesting Jabbar to exit the vehicle, moments before Jabbar began firing as seen in the (AP News) reports.

In a statement addressing the incident, New Orleans Police Department Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick praised the officers involved, asserting, “They killed the terrorist... They are national heroes.” In total, three officers, including Beyer and Jordan, returned fire, while a third officer, Sergeant Nigel Daggs, shot from a position near the front passenger door of Jabbar's truck. However, specifics on Jabbar’s gunfire count remain undisclosed as investigations continue.

Despite the chaos, Kirkpatrick noted that the officers acted in compliance with their training and protocols during high-stress scenarios, which involve split-second decisions regarding whether to engage or retreat. She emphasized that the officers have been cleared to return to duty following the incident.

The FBI has intensified its investigation into the attack, with inquiries focusing on whether Jabbar's actions were orchestrated or inspired by foreign terrorist entities. Public concerns have heightened regarding the city's preparedness for such attacks, especially given that a (Los Angeles Times) report highlighted prior warnings surrounding the risks of terrorism in the area.

Adding to the complexities, victims of the truck attack have filed lawsuits against the city, alleging negligence in implementing adequate security measures that could have thwarted the attack. During recent press conferences, Kirkpatrick stated that further bodycam footage could be made available as the investigation unfolds.

Given the significance of this attack, Kirkpatrick reinforced the need for thorough investigations to fully understand the oversight and security measures previously in place. She also indicated that further details about the officers and their responses would be disclosed as investigations progress, including insights into the malfunctioning barriers at the location, which reportedly left the area vulnerable to such attacks.

This ongoing inquiry will not only help determine accountability but also aim to improve safety measures on Bourbon Street and across the city to prevent future tragedies.

For more information and updates, visit (Newsweek) and (CBS News).