Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar: Who was the suspect in New Orleans attack?

Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas, has been identified by the FBI as the suspect in a devastating attack that claimed 10 lives in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. The incident, involving a truck ramming into a crowd, is being treated as an act of terrorism.

The FBI revealed that Jabbar used a rented Ford pickup truck for the attack. An ISIS flag was reportedly discovered inside the vehicle, alongside weapons and what appeared to be improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Authorities are investigating Jabbar’s potential links to terrorist organizations and are working to determine the viability of the explosive devices.

The tragedy unfolded in New Orleans’ French Quarter, with the attacker targeting pedestrians on Bourbon Street at approximately 3:15 a.m. Following the crash, Jabbar emerged from the truck and opened fire on responding police officers, injuring two. Officers returned fire, resulting in his death at the scene.

Jabbar’s background sheds light on a complex individual. Court records from his 2022 divorce proceedings indicate he previously worked for the accounting firm Deloitte, earning an annual salary of $120,000. However, the filings highlighted financial difficulties, including late mortgage payments and credit card debt. His criminal history includes misdemeanor theft in 2002 and driving with an invalid license in 2005, both in Texas.

The FBI continues its investigation into Jabbar’s motives and affiliations, while bomb technicians are diligently ensuring the safety of the public by neutralizing any potential threats. The attack has left the New Orleans community in shock as authorities work to uncover the full scope of the incident.