Locations Affected: United States
On 01 January, a US Army veteran drove a truck through a New Year’s celebration gathering on Bourbon Street in New Orleans and began firing, resulting in the deaths of 15 people and multiple injuries. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) stated that the attack is being investigated as an act of terrorism. The FBI initially believed that the perpetrator, who was shot dead by police at the crime scene, was not the sole person responsible. However, after an initial inquiry it was concluded that the perpetrator acted alone. The FBI also discovered videos on social media posted by the driver in which he stated that he was inspired by the Islamic State.
Updates About the Investigation
- Investigators found an Islamic State flag, guns, and an improvised explosive device in the vehicle. Additionally, incendiary devices, including two pipe bombs concealed within coolers and wired for remote detonation, were found in other locations in the city’s French Quarter.
- Police authorities cordoned off the scene for further investigation and closed off a nine-block stretch of Bourbon Street and nearby streets on 01 January. The street was reopened on 02 January with barriers added on the street and adjacent sidewalks.
- Harris County sheriff’s officers and FBI agents surrounded a residence in north Houston in connection with the New Orleans attack on 01 January. Authorities advised the public to avoid the area and imposed a temporary flight restriction.
- US President Joe Biden stated that investigators are exploring a possible connection between the attack in New Orleans and the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, which also occurred on 01 January. Both trucks were rented through a peer-to-peer rental app called Turo.
Impact of the Attack
The attack in New Orleans has raised concerns about the potential for related terrorist activities and the security measures necessary to prevent them. The FBI has frequently warned about elevated international terrorism threats amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and has disrupted multiple potential attacks in the United States. Heightened security measures are expected to continue in New Orleans and the suspected residence of the perpetrator in Texas until the investigation concludes. Travel disruptions may occur on Bourbon Street and surrounding roads. Organizations are advised to stay updated on the situation, security measures, and to prepare necessary contingency plans.
