New Orleans Terror Attack: Search for Accomplices Continues as Attorney General Supports Death Penalty
In the wake of a tragic truck attack in New Orleans that claimed the lives of at least 15 individuals and left dozens injured, authorities are actively pursuing potential accomplices associated with the attacker, Shamsud-Din Jabbar. The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday, has drawn significant attention from law enforcement agencies, including the FBI.
Jabbar, who had declared allegiance to the Islamic State on social media, was killed in a police shootout shortly after the attack. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill confirmed to Fox News that evidence suggests Jabbar may have been part of a coordinated effort, although details about potential accomplices remain scarce. Murrill stated unequivocally, “In Louisiana, we have the death penalty, and we will carry it out!” in a public message shared on X.
The FBI has expanded its investigation across multiple states, analyzing evidence found in Jabbar’s truck, which included firearms and what appeared to be an improvised explosive device. Investigators are currently executing court-authorized search warrants in New Orleans and beyond as they methodically gather evidence from the crime scene.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick noted that authorities have identified “persons of interest” in the case and are examining Jabbar’s life for clues about his radicalization. The attacker, originally from Texas, had served in the U.S. military from March 2007 until January 2015 and later in the Army Reserves until July 2020, completing a deployment to Afghanistan during his service.
In response to the chaos, the Sugar Bowl sporting event scheduled for Wednesday was postponed and will now take place on Thursday night, although some officials are advocating for further delays.
Former President Donald Trump criticized the current administration’s handling of national security in light of the events, condemning Jabbar and describing him as “violent scum.” He called for CIA involvement in the ongoing investigation while attributing the attack to broader issues of leadership and safety within the U.S.
As the investigation develops, authorities continue to stress the importance of public safety and vigilance against potential threats.