New Orleans, January 1, 2025 – The streets of New Orleans turned into a scene of chaos and sorrow early this morning when a pickup truck driver deliberately plowed into a crowd celebrating New Year’s Day on Bourbon Street. The attack, which has left at least 10 people dead and over 35 injured, is being investigated by the FBI as an act of terrorism, with an ISIS flag and weapons found in the vehicle driven by 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen and Army veteran from Texas.
Update 4:00 AM Bangkok time: Investigators have reviewed video of three men and a woman placing explosives in connection with the deadly car attack in New Orleans’s French Quarter. The FBI said it does not believe the driver acted alone.
The Thai consulate in the U.S. has been quick to respond, ensuring that any Thai nationals affected receive necessary support. There’s no immediate confirmation on any Thai casualties or injuries, but the consulate has urged Thai citizens in the area to stay safe and follow local authorities’ guidance.
The attack unfolded around 3:15 a.m. when the suspect, driving what appears to be a Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck, drove around safety barricades and into a crowd gathered for New Year’s festivities. After the initial ramming, the suspect engaged in gunfire with the police, leading to his death at the scene. The presence of weapons and a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) in the vehicle has escalated the incident’s severity, prompting a thorough investigation into terror links.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled the incident a “terrorist attack,” and the city’s emergency services, alongside the FBI, are working tirelessly to manage the aftermath, secure the area, and investigate the motives behind the attack. The FBI has confirmed finding an ISIS flag in the truck, though the exact affiliations or inspirations of the suspect remain under scrutiny.
The attack has not only affected New Orleans but has also raised concerns about global security, particularly during high-profile celebrations. President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation, and condolences have poured in from around the world. In Thailand, the incident has led to discussions on social media and news outlets about the safety of traveling abroad, especially to high-visibility events.
Locally, New Orleans is in mourning, with the community coming together to support those affected. The city, known for its resilience, is now focused on healing while ensuring that such an event does not repeat. The investigation continues, with authorities looking into how the suspect managed to bypass security measures and what could be done to enhance public safety in the future.
