In a harrowing event that unfolded early Wednesday morning, authorities identified Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old veteran of the U.S. Army hailing from Texas, as the suspect behind a horrific incident on Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
Witnesses report that Jabbar drove his truck, adorned with an Islamic State flag, into a crowd celebrating the New Year, leading to the tragic loss of 15 lives and injuring many more.
Details of the Incident
Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement engaged in a firefight with Jabbar, resulting in his death.
Investigators, including members of the FBI, uncovered firearms and what seemed to be an improvised explosive device (IED) in his vehicle.
Additionally, several possible IEDs were found scattered throughout the French Quarter.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation following the incident, acknowledging Jabbar’s service in the military.
An Army spokesperson confirmed that Jabbar served actively from March 2007 to January 2015, focusing on human resources and IT.
His military career included a deployment to Afghanistan between February 2009 and January 2010.
After his time on active duty, Jabbar joined the Army Reserve and continued his service as an IT specialist until July 2020, attaining the rank of staff sergeant by the end of his tenure.
Recognition of his service included three Army Commendation Medals and four Army Achievement Medals.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, the FBI categorizes this incident as an act of terrorism and is probing Jabbar’s potential connections to extremist organizations, a sentiment echoed by Attorney General Merrick Garland.
Prior to the attack, Jabbar allegedly posted several videos on social media that expressed his intent for violence, with signs indicating that ISIS propaganda may have influenced him.
President Biden reassured the public about the active and evolving investigation, affirming that law enforcement and intelligence personnel are rigorously pursuing any links or additional suspects tied to the incident.
Background and Reactions
This tragic episode adds to a growing pattern of extremist violence associated with individuals who have military backgrounds.
Data from the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) reveals that 15% of veterans and service members involved in extremist activities had ties to international Islamist radical movements.
In response to speculation about Jabbar’s background raised by President-elect Donald Trump, authorities clarified that he was indeed born in the United States.
Rich Groen, Jabbar’s former commander during their deployment in Afghanistan, expressed his dismay on social media.
He described the transformation of a soldier he once saw as dedicated into someone capable of such violent acts as shocking.
Groen’s comments served as a poignant reminder of how unchecked anger and isolation can lead to devastating outcomes.
Source: Militarytimes