FBI Says New Orleans Attacker Recorded Street Using Smart Glasses
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has revealed chilling details about the movements of Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the man accused of the deadly ramming attack in New Orleans that claimed 14 lives and injured over 30 people. According to officials, Jabbar visited the Louisiana city twice before his New Year’s Day attack, using one trip to conduct apparent reconnaissance.
UPDATE: @FBINewOrleans releases updated information on the Bourbon Street Attack, including new videos. https://t.co/BSYQAoUdos
If you have any information about the attack or Shamsud-Din Jabbar, report it to the FBI at 1800CALLFBI or https://t.co/BeeeZaZvGV pic.twitter.com/Sr3MoSdZJS
— FBI (@FBI) January 5, 2025
In late October 2023, Jabbar traveled from his Texas residence to New Orleans, where he cycled through the French Quarter while recording the area with camera-equipped smart glasses. The video, later released by the FBI, shows Jabbar wearing Meta glasses that allow users to capture footage hands-free. He was seen pausing to examine his reflection in a full-length mirror, possibly testing the functionality of the device.
Help Solve the Bourbon Street Attack
Watch the latest footage on the January 1 attack in New Orleans. If you have any information about the attack or Shamsud-Din Jabbar, contact the #FBI. https://t.co/KOFaPdYbjA
— FBI (@FBI) January 5, 2025
Jabbar returned to New Orleans on November 10, but this time, investigators say, he did not activate his glasses. However, his earlier recordings and visits appear to have played a role in his planning for the January 1 attack.
Details of the Attack
On New Year’s Day, Jabbar drove a rented pickup truck through a barrier on Bourbon Street, one of New Orleans’ busiest nightlife districts. Accelerating at high speed, he rammed into a crowd, killing 14 revelers and leaving dozens more injured. Police acted swiftly, engaging Jabbar in a shootout that ended with his death.
The FBI also disclosed that Jabbar left two homemade bombs along his path. Officials believe that had the New Orleans police not responded quickly, he might have detonated these devices, further escalating the tragedy.
International Travel Raises Questions
The FBI further revealed that Jabbar had traveled abroad twice in 2023, fueling concerns about potential overseas connections. In the summer of 2023, he spent 11 days in Cairo, Egypt, followed by a three-day visit to Ontario, Canada, just a week later.
While investigators have yet to determine the purpose of these trips, FBI Special Agent Lyonel Myrthil said efforts are underway to trace anyone Jabbar may have interacted with during his international travels. His allegiance to the ISIS militant group, as declared on his social media accounts, has added a layer of complexity to the probe.
Weapons and Explosives Found
The investigation uncovered two firearms—a 9mm pistol and a .308-caliber semi-automatic rifle—both recovered from Jabbar’s possession. Additionally, the homemade bombs discovered along his route underscore the scale of devastation that could have unfolded had law enforcement not intervened promptly.
FBI and Local Authorities on Alert
Authorities continue to examine Jabbar’s motivations, connections, and activities in the lead-up to the attack. The incident, which struck the heart of New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife, serves as a grim reminder of the potential for lone-wolf attacks inspired by extremist ideologies.
Efforts to unravel Jabbar’s broader network, if any, are ongoing, with a focus on his international travels and online activities.
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