Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, a criminal justice reporter at The New York Times, and Mike Baker, a national reporter, dive into the harrowing New Year's attack in New Orleans. They explore the chaos on Bourbon Street and the tragic loss of 15 lives. The suspect, a U.S. Army veteran turned ISIS supporter, had a chilling journey into radicalization, shaped by personal struggles. The discussion sheds light on the implications for public safety during large events and the communities left grappling with the aftermath.
The tragic New Year's Day terrorist attack in New Orleans, carried out by Shamsuddin Jabbar, resulted in 14 deaths and 35 injuries, highlighting the vulnerability of public events to vehicular assaults.
Jabbar's transformation from a seemingly stable U.S. Army veteran to a perpetrator of violence underscores the complexities of radicalization and the underlying mental health struggles he faced.
Deep dives
Devastating Attack in New Orleans
A terrorist attack occurred in downtown New Orleans on New Year's Day, resulting in the tragic deaths of 14 individuals and injuries to 35 others. The incident commenced when a pickup truck, reportedly driven by 42-year-old Shamsuddin Bahar Jabbar, surged through a crowded Bourbon Street shortly after celebrations began. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the truck careened into revelers, creating instant panic and fear. Within moments, the festive atmosphere was transformed into devastation, with people desperately searching for loved ones amidst the chaos and the aftermath littered with bodies.
Profile of the Attacker
Shamsuddin Jabbar, a U.S. Army veteran with a seemingly stable life, became a shocking perpetrator of terror, raising concerns about his motives and radicalization. Having served his country, he transitioned to civilian life, achieving a six-figure job while maintaining a normal façade to his family and friends. However, underlying struggles, including two divorces and financial difficulties, appeared to escalate into increasingly erratic behavior, hinting at a deeper turmoil. His transformation culminated in social media posts pledging allegiance to ISIS just hours before the attack, suggesting a turn towards extremist ideology.
Investigative Efforts and Broader Implications
Following the attack, the FBI investigated potential connections to a larger group, especially considering the simultaneous explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck in Las Vegas by another military member. Initial concerns suggested a coordinated assault could be at play, but authorities ultimately determined that Jabbar acted alone. Investigators continue to examine digital evidence from assignments, including videos he posted prior to the attack, seeking to understand the root of his radicalization. The incident raises critical questions about security measures, reflecting earlier assessments that warned of vulnerabilities along Bourbon Street for potential vehicle attacks.
Warning: This episode contains descriptions of violence and death.
A mere three hours into 2025, terrorism struck in downtown New Orleans.
The Times journalists Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Mike Baker, and Christina Morales discuss what we know about the attack, the man who carried it out and the victims.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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