The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) delivered an update on the ongoing investigation into the New Year’s Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street. FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia, joined by Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alethea Duncan of the New Orleans office, addressed the media, providing details about the attack that left 14 people dead and 35 injured.
“This was an act of terrorism—premeditated and evil,” said Raia. He confirmed the attacker, Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, acted alone, with no evidence suggesting other individuals were involved.
Attack Overview
Jabbar drove a rented F150 Lightning truck from Houston, Texas, to New Orleans, posting videos online en route declaring allegiance to ISIS. In these videos, he expressed his intent to create maximum impact and his belief in a “war between believers and disbelievers.” Jabbar, a U.S. military veteran, described his plans, left a will, and proclaimed loyalty to the terrorist group.
Upon reaching Bourbon Street early on New Year’s Day, Jabbar drove through a barricaded area, using the vehicle as a weapon, and later opened fire on civilians. Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were planted in the French Quarter but were rendered safe by FBI bomb technicians. Surveillance footage confirmed Jabbar placed the devices at their respective locations.
An ISIS flag was recovered from Jabbar’s truck. Investigators are analyzing three phones found with him to uncover additional leads.
Investigative Progress
The FBI has received over 400 tips and is reviewing hours of surveillance footage from the French Quarter. Evidence Response Teams are thoroughly examining the attacker’s vehicle and a rented house in New Orleans where he stayed prior to the attack.
“We have forward-deployed members of our Critical Incident Response Group and victim specialists to assist with this investigation and provide support to the victims’ families,” said Raia.
Jabbar, born in the United States, had a military background. The FBI is investigating his life history, including his time in the armed forces, to uncover any contributing factors to his radicalization.
Call for Witnesses
Authorities are urging anyone who saw Jabbar, particularly in New Orleans or Texas, to come forward. They are also seeking information from people who were in the French Quarter on New Year’s Eve or early on New Year’s Day, especially near the sites where the IEDs were planted.
“Witnesses may not think they have relevant information, but even the smallest detail could help us,” Raia emphasized.
Broader Investigation
The FBI is also investigating potential links between the New Orleans attack and a separate incident in Las Vegas. While no definitive connection has been established, all leads are being pursued.
Support for the Community
“Our thoughts are with the victims of this tragedy and everyone impacted across the country,” said Raia. He assured that the FBI will dedicate all necessary resources to ensure justice is served and prevent future incidents.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips online at www.fbi.gov/bourbonstreetattack.
Bourbon Street has since been reopened to the public, with investigators continuing to analyze evidence and support victims.
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