Crime
Suspect in New Orleans car-ramming attack identified
A total of 10 victims were pronounced deceased on the scene.
The suspect has been identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas.
Jabbar was driving a Ford pickup truck that appears to have been rented. The FBI is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding how he obtained the vehicle.
An ISIS flag was discovered inside the truck. Authorities are actively investigating any potential affiliations or associations Jabbar may have had with terrorist organizations.
The suspect’s vehicle contained weapons and what is believed to be an improvised explosive device (IED).
Other potential IEDs were discovered in the French Quarter, prompting an extensive investigation by bomb squad teams and law enforcement officials.
The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) responded to a devastating incident in the early hours of January 1, 2024, at the intersection of Bourbon and Canal Streets, which has resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, including the death of the suspected perpetrator.
The FBI has confirmed the attack is being investigated as an act of terrorism.
At approximately 3:17 a.m., law enforcement officers were dispatched following reports of a vehicle ramming into a crowd of pedestrians on Bourbon Street.
The vehicle struck multiple individuals before coming to a halt after crashing.
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities discovered the grim toll:
A total of 10 victims were pronounced deceased on the scene.
Approximately 35 individuals suffered various injuries and were transported by EMS to several local hospitals for treatment. The conditions of the injured are not yet available.
Per law enforcement sources, a long gun has been recovered from scene.
A graphic image circulating online depicts the suspected perpetrator of the New Orleans car-ramming attack lying deceased outside a heavily damaged vehicle.
Federal law enforcement sources have revealed that the truck used in the attack entered the United States through Eagle Pass, Texas, two days prior to the incident. This detail has become a critical lead as investigators work to trace the suspect’s movements and possible connections leading up to the attack.
Authorities are still working to confirm the suspect’s identity and citizenship status, which remain unclear. Investigators are collaborating with federal agencies to determine whether the individual acted alone or as part of a broader network.
The discovery of an improvised explosive device (IED) inside the truck and reports of additional explosive devices in the area have heightened concerns about the suspect’s intentions and level of planning. The suspect was also armed with a long gun fitted with a silencer, further underscoring the sophistication of the attack.
This ongoing investigation involves multiple agencies, including local law enforcement, federal authorities, and counterterrorism units. Officials are urging the public to avoid sharing unverified or graphic content as they work to release accurate and timely information about the incident.
As New Orleans mourns the victims of this tragic event, the city remains on high alert. Authorities are appealing for public cooperation as they continue their efforts to secure the area and ensure the safety of its residents.
After the vehicle crash, the suspected perpetrator opened fire on responding officers. Police returned fire, striking the suspect, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. The identity of the suspect remains undisclosed as the investigation continues.
During the exchange, two NOPD officers were injured. Both were transported to a local hospital and are currently listed in stable condition.
The FBI has taken over as the lead investigative agency, officially classifying the incident as a terrorist attack.
The investigation remains active, and no further details about the suspect or possible motives have been released.
Authorities have established a security perimeter and are urging the public to avoid the affected area.
The restricted zone includes:
- Bourbon Street north from Canal to Dumaine Streets.
- The area east to Royal Street and west to Dauphine Street.
- Family Reunification: Individuals seeking information about loved ones believed to have been in the area are asked to call 311. Emergency lines, such as 911, should remain open for critical needs only.
- Information Submission: Anyone with relevant information about the incident is encouraged to contact the FBI’s New Orleans Bureau at (504) 816-3000 or via email at tips@fbi.gov.
The next media briefing is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. CST, during which officials are expected to provide updates on the investigation, the status of the victims, and any new developments.
This tragic event has left the city of New Orleans in mourning as authorities work tirelessly to uncover the circumstances surrounding the attack and bring clarity to this horrific act.
Crime
Armed Man with Reported Mental Health Concerns Arrested inside U.S. Capitol
Police officer suspended after failing to stop an armed man entering the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 21, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) responded to a security alert regarding a man reportedly experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, who was believed to be armed and in the vicinity of the Capitol.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., USCP officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE.
A subsequent search of the area determined that the individual had recently entered the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) and participated in a Capitol tour.
At around 2:15 p.m., officers observed the man exiting the Library of Congress following the tour and walking toward his vehicle.
He was intercepted, searched, and taken into custody. A concealed 9mm handgun was discovered in his waistband during the search.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Unlawful Activities
- Carrying a Pistol Without a License
- Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
- Resisting Arrest
The case is currently under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following a review of security footage, it was determined that Faber entered the Capitol Visitor Center through the south checkpoint. Although the magnetometer alarm was triggered, an officer conducted a secondary hand search and subsequently allowed him entry into the building.
As a result of this lapse, the officer involved has been placed on administrative suspension pending an internal investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess their performance in handling the security screening.
Authorities have stated that, at this time, there is no indication that Faber intended to harm members of Congress or any individuals within the Capitol complex.
In response to the incident, the USCP has ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols and mandated refresher training for all personnel involved in visitor screening to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The United States Capitol Police demands the highest standards in security screening procedures to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Capitol complex. A thorough review is already underway to reinforce our protocols and training,” the agency stated.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident.