The tragic New Year's attack in New Orleans, which left at least 15 people dead and many injured, continues to unravel as authorities investigate the suspect identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S.-born citizen and Army veteran. This deadly incident occurred shortly after midnight on January 1, 2025, when Jabbar drove a rented pickup truck through crowds on Bourbon Street, allegedly aiming to cause maximum carnage.

Eyewitness accounts revealed a scene of chaos as Jabbar maneuvered around a police barricade and sped through a throng of New Year's revelers. After the crash, reports indicate he exited the vehicle armed with an assault rifle and began firing at officers, resulting in injuries to at least two police personnel before he was shot dead by returning fire. Authorities confirmed that a grave level of intent fueled his actions, with officials noting Jabbar was “hell-bent” on inflicting harm.

The FBI has initiated an extensive investigation into the attack, revealing that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered both in Jabbar's vehicle and in the neighboring French Quarter area. Jabbar’s rental truck also featured an ISIS flag, signifying potential affiliations with terror groups. Investigators are actively looking into whether his actions were part of a broader conspiracy, suggesting he may not have acted alone. Assistant Special Agent Althea Duncan emphasized that Jabbar's associates, and the evidence from surveillance videos showing individuals planting explosives, warrant further exploration.

Moreover, President Joe Biden condemned the assault as a “heinous act,” confirming that shortly before the attack, Jabbar had posted videos online expressing his desire to kill, which are now part of the ongoing investigation. Biden expressed concerns over connections between the New Orleans ordeal and a separate explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck in Las Vegas on the same day, both of which were rented through the Turo app.

As the FBI conducts searches in New Orleans and Texas, including Houston, authorities urge any individuals who interacted with Jabbar in the days leading to the attack to come forward. The investigation focuses on his military background, including service in the U.S. Army and the Army Reserve, as well as his recent lifestyle changes that suggest possible radicalization.

This incident has shaken the community, with local officials, including New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, labeling the event a "terrorist attack." As the investigation unfolds, the identities of the victims are pending release following autopsies by local coroners, as investigators work tirelessly to piece together the motives and connections surrounding this tragic event. For live updates on this developing situation, you can follow the coverage from ABC News.