In a horrific incident on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, at least 15 people were killed and over 35 were injured early on January 1, 2025, when a driver rammed a pickup truck into a crowd during the city's New Year's celebrations. The assailant has been identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas, who reportedly had an ISIS flag in his vehicle and was said to have posted videos expressing extremist views mere hours before the attack. President Joe Biden confirmed these details in a speech following the incident.

The tragic event unfolded around 3:15 a.m. as Jabbar drove his truck through the crowd, which had assembled for celebrations. After the initial crash, reports indicate Jabbar opened fire on responding police officers, resulting in injuries to two officers who are currently in stable condition. Law enforcement officials have categorized the event as a terrorist attack and the FBI has taken over the investigation, considering Jabbar might not have acted alone and is examining any potential collaborators involved.

FBI Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Alethea Duncan stated that several improvised explosive devices were found in the area, adding that investigators are determining the viability of these devices. The authorities initially reported ten fatalities, but this figure has since risen as more victims succumbed to their injuries.

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell addressed the media, emphasizing that the incident was planned and suggested the perpetrator was “hell bent on creating the carnage.” She noted the existing security measures—barriers—which were not fully enforced at the time, stating the city was in the process of replacing them in preparation for future events, including the upcoming Super Bowl.

The Sugar Bowl college football game scheduled for that day has been postponed as a precautionary measure, reflecting concerns for public safety in light of the attack.

The incident marks one of the deadliest attacks in recent years within the tourist district, a location traditionally filled with crowds during major celebrations. The FBI continues to conduct a thorough investigation, while local and federal authorities urge the public to remain vigilant. Governor Jeff Landry has described the event as a “horrific act of violence” and has called for prayers for the victims.

As this story develops, more details will emerge regarding the motivations behind the attack, Jabbar's possible associations, and the ongoing law enforcement response. The Forbes report notes that further investigations are imminent as officials pursue all leads and assess the potential for additional threats to public safety.