New Details Emerge About New Orleans Terrorist Attack
Shamsud Din Jabbar made two scouting trips to New Orleans prior to his New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street, according to the FBI.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Lionel Merkel provided details about Jabbar’s preparation during a recent news conference, outlining his travels, surveillance efforts, and use of advanced technology leading up to the terrorist attack on Bourbon Street.
“FBI New Orleans deeply mourns the loss of those who tragically lost their lives and extends our hearts to those who endured the panic and horror of witnessing this act of terror,” Merkel stated. “Today, we’re providing a clearer picture of the planning and steps Jabbar took to carry out this heinous attack.”
Jabbar posted five videos on Facebook on Jan. 1, pledging allegiance to the Islamic State group (ISIS) and explaining his motives. The pickup truck he drove also displayed an ISIS flag.
Extensive Travel and Surveillance
Investigations revealed that Jabbar traveled extensively in the months leading up to the attack, visiting New Orleans in October and November 2024. During these trips, he stayed at rental properties, used high-tech glasses with video recording capabilities for surveillance, and familiarized himself with the layout of the French Quarter.
Authorities are seeking information from individuals who may have encountered Jabbar during these trips.
On December 31, Jabbar rented a white pickup truck and drove from Texas to Louisiana. Surveillance footage showed him arriving at a rental home in New Orleans late at night. He then drove the truck to the French Quarter.
Between 12:41 a.m. and 3:15 a.m., Jabbar strategically placed improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Bourbon Street, including in coolers left on street corners. Fortunately, none of the devices detonated.
Use of Explosive Materials
The explosive materials found at the address were identified as R-Salt, similar in composition to the commonly available RDX. Materials from the rental home also tested positive for RDX.
According to the ATF, Jabbar’s devices used a substitute mechanism for detonation, indicating a lack of understanding of how these materials function.
International Trips Under Investigation
Jabbar had also traveled to Japan and Egypt in 2023. Investigators are looking into whether these trips played a role in his radicalization or planning of the terrorist attack.
Syndicated with permission from The Center Square.
