The recent New Orleans attack that took place on New Year’s Day has been a topic of intense scrutiny, with the FBI confirming that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the primary suspect, acted alone but was "100% inspired by ISIS" (India Times). According to FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia, Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran, killed at least 15 individuals and injured over 30 others when he plowed a rented Ford F-150 into a crowded Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

Before the attack, Jabbar traveled from Houston to New Orleans, reportedly renting the truck on December 30, 2024. He posted five videos on social media proclaiming his allegiance to ISIS, expressing his motives and intentions just hours before the attack (USA Today). In the videos, he outlined his desire to inflict mass harm and even mentioned that he considered targeting his family before diverting his focus to the crowded streets of New Orleans.

On the morning of the attack, Jabbar drove his truck onto the sidewalk, bypassing police barricades, and began mowing down pedestrians while simultaneously firing an assault rifle into the crowd. He was killed on the scene after exchanging gunfire with police officers, who also sustained injuries in the encounter (ABC News).

In light of this tragedy, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have issued a joint intelligence bulletin warning law enforcement agencies nationwide about potential copycat attacks. This is particularly pressing due to recent calls from ISIS for supporters to engage in similar vehicular attacks (ABC News). Authorities are particularly on watch for any suspicious behaviors that may indicate pre-operational surveillance or attempts to rent vehicles for similar purposes.

During the ongoing investigation, authorities discovered two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that Jabbar had planted around the site of the attack. They were found to be constructed from galvanized piping and filled with nails, although they did not detonate (ABC News). Investigators are combing through evidence recovered from Jabbar's residence in Houston, which includes laptops and mobile phones, with over 400 public tips directed at understanding Jabbar’s background, motivations, and connections.

As the investigation continues, New Orleans has heightened security measures and reopened Bourbon Street for events following the incident. Authorities remain vigilant and are encouraging anyone who might have information related to Jabbar's actions prior to the attack to come forward, as they continue piecing together the chronology of this tragic incident (SCMP).