The assault began at 3:15 a.m. CST as thousands filled Bourbon Street to ring in the New Year. Jabbar used a rented Ford F-150 Lightning to bypass barricades and sped through three blocks, striking pedestrians in a deliberate act of violence. After crashing the truck, he exited with an assault rifle, wounding two police officers before being fatally shot by law enforcement.

Panic and Devastation in the French Quarter

The attack left the streets in chaos. Witnesses described a scene of terror, with screams filling the air and injured victims scattered across the area. One bystander recounted the panic as people fled, calling it an unforgettable and horrifying experience.

Links to ISIS Emerge

Investigators have identified strong ties between Jabbar and ISIS. An ISIS flag was discovered in the vehicle, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found nearby, though their effectiveness is still under evaluation. Authorities are scrutinizing Jabbar’s recent movements, including his entry into the U.S. through Eagle Pass, Texas, and his rental of the truck just days before the attack.

Leaders Denounce the Violence

President Joe Biden condemned the attack as an act of “pure evil,” describing it as an assault not only on New Orleans but on the nation’s core values. He assured the public that all those involved would face justice.

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell labeled the incident a terrorist attack and called for accountability from federal agencies. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stressed that the attack was premeditated, designed to inflict maximum harm in a calculated act of terror.

A City United in Grief

The attack has left New Orleans reeling. A reunification center has been set up at the University Medical Center New Orleans to assist families of the victims. Among those killed were two Israeli nationals, underscoring the international impact of the tragedy.

Heightened Security Measures

In the wake of the attack, security has been intensified across the city. The Sugar Bowl, a major college football playoff game scheduled at the nearby Superdome, will proceed under heightened precautions. Officials have urged the public to remain alert, warning that the threat of additional attacks remains significant.

A Grim Reminder of Ongoing Threats

This tragedy highlights the persistent danger posed by extremist tactics like vehicle ramming, which aim to maximize casualties in crowded areas. As the FBI investigates Jabbar’s background and possible ties to ISIS, critical questions remain about how such attacks can be prevented and how public spaces can be better secured.