January 2, 2025: A deadly New Year's Day attack in New Orleans has left 15 people dead and over 30 injured in what authorities are calling a terrorist act inspired by ISIS. The suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former U.S. Army veteran, carried out a horrifying rampage in the French Quarter, first ramming a crowd with his vehicle and then opening fire before being killed in a police shootout.

The FBI revealed that Jabbar had an ISIS flag displayed on his truck and that investigators found weapons, an improvised explosive device, and other materials in the vehicle. Officials are probing the possibility that Jabbar may have had accomplices, with an FBI spokesperson confirming they are pursuing leads on his known associates.

Videos posted by Jabbar to social media hours before the attack provide chilling insight into his motives. In the footage, Jabbar expressed admiration for ISIS and a desire to kill, while also mentioning personal struggles, including a divorce. CNN reported that Jabbar initially planned to harm his family under the guise of a “celebration” but ultimately directed his rage outward, stating in the videos that he had "joined ISIS."

President Joe Biden condemned the attack, calling it a "heinous act of terrorism." He assured the nation that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to uncover any potential networks linked to Jabbar.

Jabbar, who lived in Houston and worked in real estate, had a military background, serving in the U.S. Army from 2007 to 2020, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Despite his military record, he showed no prior signs of radicalization, making the attack even more alarming for investigators.

As New Orleans mourns the tragic loss of lives, the city has bolstered security measures in high-traffic areas to prevent further incidents. The investigation continues, with authorities urging the public to report any information related to Jabbar or the attack.