Authorities have disclosed that the man responsible for the horrific New Year’s attack in New Orleans, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had bomb-making materials at his home and had reserved the pickup truck used in the assault more than six weeks prior to the incident, according to law enforcement officials. The FBI's report highlighted that Jabbar, a 42-year-old former Army soldier, had purchased supplies suggesting premeditated violence, as he bought a cooler in Vidor, Texas, and gun oil from Sulphur, Louisiana, just hours before the attack (AP News).

On that fateful day, including his assault, authorities confirmed that the attack resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals and left around 30 others injured. The victims ranged in ages from 18 to 63 and included an aspiring nurse, a single mother, and a former Princeton University football player. The coroner's office attributed the cause of death for all victims as “blunt force injuries” (VOA News).

Further examination of Jabbar's home in Houston revealed a workbench filled with hazardous materials believed to be used in making explosive devices. Law enforcement described Jabbar's actions as highly calculated, noting that he had reserved the vehicle on November 14, indicating a deliberate plotting process that spanned several weeks (The Guardian).

During the attack in New Orleans' famous Bourbon Street, Jabbar exited his vehicle clad in a ballistic vest and helmet, and engaged the police in a gunfight, injuring at least two officers before he was shot dead (India Times). Authorities also found improvised explosive devices left throughout the area, with two being successfully neutralized at the scene (South China Morning Post).

In the wake of the attack, the atmosphere in the city turned somber as locals and tourists gathered to pay their respects at the memorial for the victims. President Joe Biden has announced his upcoming visit to New Orleans to connect with the affected families and community members (SCMP).

The FBI investigation has concluded that Jabbar acted alone, emphasizing the dangerous resurgence of terrorism threats on U.S. soil. Experts are calling for enhanced security measures in popular tourist areas, especially as the city prepares for the upcoming Mardi Gras celebrations and the Super Bowl scheduled for February 9 (VOA News).

The New Orleans city officials are discussing the potential for legislative measures to better prepare and protect the community from future threats, highlighting the importance of comprehensive investigations to understand and mitigate such incidents (AP News).

In summary, the New Orleans attack not only claimed multiple lives but also underscored the increasing risks of domestic terrorism, as federal officials stress the need for vigilance against a resurgent international terror network