TRUCK DRIVER WHO PLOUGHED INTO NEW ORLEANS CROWD ON NEW YEAR’S IDENTIFIED AS ARMY VET
New Orleans, a city known for its lively celebrations and vibrant culture, was left in shock and mourning after a devastating incident that occurred in the early hours of 2025. A joyous day of celebration turned into a nightmare when Shamsud Din Jabbar drove his vehicle into a crowd. He was among the 15 people who were killed. His actions also injured dozens more. Now, the FBI is referring to the attack as an act of terrorism. Learn more about the attack and the driver.
A Night of Celebration Turns Deadly
The streets of New Orleans were packed with partygoers ringing in the new year. Just before midnight, a speeding SUV plowed through a crowded area down the iconic Bourbon Street, according to the FBI.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and chaos, with people screaming and running for safety. The vehicle, driven by Jabbar, came to a halt only after colliding with a barricade.
The FBI reported finding weapons and “a potential IED” in the car. According to a statement released by President Joe Biden, “Hours before the attack, he posted videos to social media indicating that he was inspired by the Islamic State terrorist group, expressing a desire to kill.”
Shamsud Din Jabbar Is an Army Veteran
In the years before the attack, Jabbar had an interest in joining the Navy; however, he decided to enlist in the Army. Revealed in records released by the military, while serving, Jabbar didn’t hold any jobs that would have taught him the skills necessary to make improvised explosive devices.
According to a Navy spokesperson, Jabbar enlisted in the Navy on August 12, 2004, in Houston. He entered the Delayed Entry Program and a month later he was discharged from the Navy and never went to boot camp. Then, in March of 2007, he enlisted in the Army and served as a human resource specialist. He eventually became an information technology specialist.
He deployed to Afghanistan from February 2009 to January 2010. During this time his commander explained that he, “worked quietly and professionally in the S1 shop and as a mail clerk, ensuring the little things were done with care and precision." He was also described as “a great soldier, someone who showed discipline and dedication.”
During his time in the Army, Jabbar received the Army Commendation Medal three times and the Army Achievement Medal four times. According to Army records, he was also awarded the Parachutist Badge, which is unusual for someone working as an IT specialist. In January of 2015, he left active-duty service, but according to close family, he struggled with adjusting to civilian life.
He transitioned from active-duty to the Army Reserve, working as an IT specialist until he left the Army in 2020.
The Aftermath of the New Year’s Attack
The crash left 15 people dead (including Jabbar), with victims ranging from young adults to seniors. More than 20 others were injured. Emergency responders were on the scene and transported those injured to nearby hospitals.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell addressed the city in the early hours of January 1st, expressing her condolences to the victims’ families. She stated, “This is a heartbreaking start to the new year. Our city grieves with the families and friends of those we lost, and we will ensure justice is served.”
Police Believe No Other Suspects Were Involved
As of this afternoon, police no longer believe that there were any other individuals involved in the attack on Bourbon Street. Police believe that he placed explosives in the area by himself and then changed his clothes.
As of now, the police are still investigating whether he spoke to others or messaged people before the attack but no evidence has been released yet.
On Thursday, Joe Biden released a statement saying, “Federal law enforcement and the intelligence community are actively investigating any foreign or domestic contact in connection that could possibly be relevant to the attack.”
The police have stated that there is no additional threat to the public.
A City in Mourning
Vigils have been held across New Orleans as the community comes together to support the victims’ families. Flowers, candles, and messages of love and sorrow now line the streets where the tragedy occurred.
Local organizations have started fundraising efforts to help cover funeral costs for the victims and medical expenses for the injured. “This is a time for us to stand united as a city,” said one organizer.
The FBI have cleared Bourbon Street and authorities have said that they can "confidently" reopen to the public ahead of the Sugar Bowl on Thursday afternoon. The game was originally scheduled for Wednesday, but was postponed. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has released a statement saying, “I want to reassure the public that the city of New Orleans is not only ready for game day today, but we’re ready to continue to host large-scale events in our city.”
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