1. What happened during the New Year’s truck attack in New Orleans?

On New Year’s Day, Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a truck into crowds in New Orleans’ French Quarter, killing 14 people. He was later shot dead by police after a firefight. Jabbar was wearing a ballistic vest and helmet during the attack and fired at officers, injuring at least two.

2. Who was Shamsud-Din Jabbar?

Jabbar, 42, was a U.S. citizen, a former Army soldier, and believed to be inspired by the Islamic State militant group. Authorities say he acted alone but are investigating his connections in the U.S. and abroad. He had traveled to Cairo, Egypt, and Ontario, Canada, and visited New Orleans twice before the attack.

3. Were explosives involved in the attack?

Yes. Jabbar planted two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in coolers in the French Quarter, but they were rendered safe by authorities. Investigators also found bomb-making materials in his rented home in New Orleans and suspected devices in his Houston residence.

4. How did Jabbar prepare for the attack?

Jabbar used “meta glasses” to record video of the French Quarter during visits in October and November 2024, presumably to plan the attack. He also purchased a semiautomatic rifle and bomb-making materials in the weeks leading up to the event.

5. What is being done to improve security after the attack?

• Increased barricades: Traffic around Bourbon and Canal streets has been heavily restricted.

• Review of bollards: New Orleans is assessing the effectiveness of its vehicle barriers to prevent future attacks.

• Upcoming events: Enhanced security measures are planned for Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl in February.