On New Year’s Day, Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a rented truck into Bourbon Street in New Orleans, mowing down revelers in what federal investigators have labeled an act of terrorism. The attack claimed 14 lives and left dozens injured. Jabbar, 42, was killed in a shootout with police following the incident.
An investigation into his background revealed his allegiance to ISIS. A subsequent FBI raid on Jabbar’s trailer home in North Houston unveiled disturbing evidence of his violent intentions. The house was in complete disarray, with the front door broken down, cabinets flung open, and furniture overturned.
Inside, authorities found bomb-making materials and a workbench set up for assembling explosives. A Quran was discovered open to a passage often interpreted by extremist groups to justify violence. This particular verse, Surah 9:111, speaks of fighting and sacrifice in the name of faith.
Additionally, chilling videos surfaced, recorded by Jabbar minutes before the attack, where he pledged loyalty to ISIS and issued threats, including against his own family. Investigators also discovered a keffiyeh in his closet and further evidence of his plans for destruction.
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing threat of terrorism and highlights the critical need for vigilance in addressing such dangers. Federal authorities continue to investigate Jabbar’s connections and motives.
