The FBI is investigating whether the suspect in the New Orleans New Year’s Day crowd attack acted alone or with accomplices, as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have been found near the scene in the French Quarter.
The devices discovered in the historic district surrounding the attack site are in addition to those found in the suspect’s pickup truck.
At a Wednesday press conference, FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alethea Duncan confirmed that weapons and potential IEDs were recovered from the vehicle and that investigators suspect the attacker was not “solely responsible.”
“We are aggressively running down every lead, including those of his known associates,” Duncan said.
Bomb technicians are actively working to determine the viability of the IEDs and to render them safe. Duncan stated that as of Wednesday, two IEDs had been neutralized.
“FBI special agent bomb technicians, along with local law enforcement partners, are thoroughly assessing the situation to ensure public safety,” Duncan said. Officers continue to comb the French Quarter for additional devices or evidence.
The FBI is also executing searches at two locations in Texas as part of the broader investigation into the suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Texas resident. Authorities are probing the suspect’s connections, including potential affiliations with terrorist organizations.
READ: Suspect In New Orleans Terror Attack, Texas Man Shamsud Din Jabbar, Had ISIS Flag
The vehicle used in the attack, a Ford pickup truck, “appears to be rented,” according to Duncan. Authorities are working to confirm how Jabbar gained possession of the truck. An ISIS flag was attached to the trailer hitch, further fueling suspicions about possible ties to extremist groups.
“We are working to determine the subject’s potential associations and affiliations with terrorist organizations,” Duncan stated.
The FBI and local law enforcement are coordinating efforts to secure the area and investigate the attack. Searches have been extended across multiple locations, and officials remain vigilant as they evaluate the scope of the threat.
Duncan reassured the public that every effort is being made to ensure safety: “This remains an active investigation, and we are committed to uncovering the full details of this tragic incident.”
The attack, which left at least 10 dead and 30 injured, has been classified as an act of terrorism by the FBI. Investigators are working to determine Jabbar’s motives and whether he had assistance in planning or executing the attack.
Anyone who has had contact with the deceased terrorist is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324).
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