New Orleans Attack Suspect Identified as Army Veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar

New Orleans, LA – Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Texas, has been identified as the suspect in the deadly New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The incident, which occurred early on January 1, 2025, resulted in at least 15 fatalities and dozens of injuries, with the FBI now investigating it as an act of terrorism.

Jabbar, who was killed by police following the attack, had a military service record spanning from 2007 to 2020. He initially served in the Army from March 2007 until July 2020, after briefly participating in the Navy’s delayed entry program. His military career included deployment to Afghanistan from February 2009 to January 2010, where he served as a human resource and IT specialist, retiring with the rank of staff sergeant. His service was marked by several accolades, including the Army Commendation Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

The attack took place around 3:15 a.m. local time when Jabbar allegedly drove a Ford pickup truck into a crowd celebrating on Bourbon Street. According to reports, he was not acting alone, with the FBI and local law enforcement looking into possible accomplices. Assistant Special Agent in Charge Althea Duncan from the FBI New Orleans field office stated, “We do not believe that Jabbar was solely responsible,” emphasizing the need for public assistance in gathering more information.

Evidence at the scene included weapons and potential explosive devices, with an ISIS flag found on the truck’s trailer hitch, leading to discussions about Jabbar’s possible radicalization. This incident has raised concerns about the monitoring of military veterans, their mental health, and potential links to extremist groups.

Jabbar’s background also includes a stint in real estate after his military service, where he worked as a property manager. However, he faced financial difficulties, including issues related to child support payments and debt. His real estate license, which he held from 2019 to 2023, expired last year.

The attack, coming at the start of the new year, has shocked New Orleans and the nation, prompting a broader discussion on security measures during public celebrations, the influence of radical ideologies, and the reintegration of military veterans into civilian life.

The FBI is calling for anyone with photos, videos, or information related to Jabbar or the incident to come forward to help piece together the events leading up to the attack.

This tragic event has left New Orleans in mourning, with community leaders and officials working to support the victims and their families while ensuring the city’s safety moving forward.