At least 15 people have tragically lost their lives in a horrific truck attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, with authorities revealing that the assailant, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had allegedly posted videos inspired by ISIS just hours before the incident. This attack, which occurred early on January 1, during New Year's celebrations, marks a devastating escalation in violent acts in the city.

The suspect, who reportedly drove a rented Ford pickup truck into the crowd at approximately 3:15 a.m., subsequently opened fire at responding police officers before being killed in the exchange of gunfire. The New Orleans coroner reported that the death toll has risen from an initial count of ten to at least fifteen, while around thirty-five others sustained injuries, including two police officers who are currently in stable condition.

The FBI has confirmed that an ISIS flag was found near the scene, and Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Alethea Duncan mentioned in a press briefing that the investigation is examining potential co-conspirators, suggesting Jabbar may not have acted alone. Federal agents are also investigating possible links to improvised explosive devices that were located in and around the vehicle used in the attack, although recent reports indicate that earlier speculation about other individuals planting explosives may not be accurate.

President Joe Biden addressed the nation, stating that Jabbar's online presence reflected a significant interest in ISIS ideology. He mentioned that just hours prior to the attack, Jabbar had been sharing content that indicated a desire to commit violence. According to the president, “mere hours before the attack, [Jabbar] posted videos on social media indicating that he was inspired by ISIS, expressing a desire to kill.”

Local officials have labeled the incident as a terrorist act, with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell confirming the devastating impact on the city. In response to the attack, the annual Sugar Bowl college football game has been postponed for public safety concerns, with officials urging attendees to avoid the affected Bourbon Street area while assuring that there will be heightened security leading up to the game.

The FBI, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and other federal agencies, is spearheading the investigation, working closely with local law enforcement to gather evidence and ascertain the intent behind this gruesome attack.

Following the tragic events, Mayor Cantrell indicated that the lack of protective barriers in the area played a role in the attack's escalation. The city is currently replacing such barriers in anticipation of the upcoming Super Bowl, which will further highlight the need for security improvements. The mayor acknowledged that while there was a police presence in the area, a set of removable metal bollards meant to prevent vehicles from entering Bourbon Street were not deployed at the time of the attack, a factor that will be re-evaluated.

This incident has drawn national attention, with public figures, including President Biden, extending their condolences and offering federal support. Biden stated he would remain updated on the investigation and the ramifications of this significant tragedy as federal and local agencies work to uncover further details.

For ongoing updates and more information on the incident, visit the full articles on Forbes.