Key Takeaways:

• Shamsud-Din Jabbar researched similar attacks and local events before the New Orleans rampage.
• The FBI links his radicalization to online extremist influences.
• The attack left 14 people dead and 57 injured, marking a notable ISIS-inspired assault in the U.S.
• Jabbar's online searches included details on accessing a balcony on Bourbon Street and the prior Christmas market attack in Germany.

In a detailed update following the tragic New Year's Day attack in New Orleans, the FBI has released key information linking Shamsud-Din Jabbar to extensive planning before his assault, which resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuries to 57 others. Over the past few weeks, the investigation revealed that Jabbar conducted multiple online searches related to previous attacks, including a notorious incident at a Christmas market in Germany mere days before his rampage.

Specifically, the FBI noted that Jabbar, a U.S. Army veteran, had researched how to access a balcony on Bourbon Street, information about New Orleans' famed Mardi Gras celebration, and historical shootings within the city. Just hours before he drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street, Jabbar looked up details about the vehicle used in the German Christmas market attack, which had occurred just ten days prior.

Jabbar's radicalization process appears to have escalated in 2022 when he isolated himself from society and adopted more devout Islamic practices. The FBI continues to analyze Jabbar's digital footprint, noting a marked shift towards extremist views. On November 10, Jabbar traveled to New Orleans for a reconnaissance trip, applying to rent an apartment, although he later rescinded his application.

Video footage captured Jabbar's actions hours before the attack, including placing two explosive devices in the French Quarter, which fortunately did not detonate. Subsequently, he breached a police barricade and proceeded to drive into unsuspecting revelers, ultimately resulting in his own death during a police shootout.

The incident is under rigorous investigation as authorities navigate the implications of Jabbar's actions and the broader questions surrounding security vulnerabilities, especially with large annual events such as New Orleans' Mardi Gras approaching. Local officials are urged to prioritize safety measures during this busy festive period.

For more detailed coverage, read on CBS News: FBI reveals New Orleans attacker's online search history.