In a series of disturbing videos, the suspect in the deadly New Year’s attack in New Orleans revealed plans to murder his family and join ISIS, according to officials investigating the incident.
The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran, allegedly drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. Authorities believe he recorded these chilling messages during a drive from Texas to Louisiana, expressing intentions of family harm and allegiance to ISIS, inspired by certain dreams.
Jabbar, a Texas-born U.S. citizen, had a military background, serving in Afghanistan. He mentioned in the recordings his initial plan to gather his family under the pretense of a celebration with sinister intentions. However, plans changed, leading him to join ISIS, as referenced by dreams he described to officials.
The recordings, not yet reviewed by CNN, appear to have been made at night, though the precise timeline remains unclear. Jabbar was subsequently killed in a shootout with police after the attack, where explosive devices and an ISIS flag were discovered in his truck.
Jabbar’s military service spanned over a decade, where he worked in human resources and IT before leaving active duty in 2015 and serving in the reserves until 2020. Educational achievements include an associate degree from Central Texas College and a bachelor’s from Georgia State University in computer-related fields.
His professional pursuits involved roles in business development at consulting firms like Deloitte and Accenture, with the former expressing shock over Jabbar’s alleged crime. His real estate license, held between 2019 and 2023, supported a brief career in property sales.
Jabbar experienced personal and legal troubles, including divorces and restraining orders, alongside past convictions for misdemeanor theft and driving under the influence, revealing issues with substance abuse.
Financial difficulties plagued him in recent years, impacting his real estate ventures and contributing to credit card debt. In one communication during his divorce, he indicated financial strain due to delayed settlements and business losses.
Jabbar rented the truck used in the attack from a car-sharing service, Turo, which also faced inquiries about a similar incident in Las Vegas involving a Tesla. The firm is cooperating with investigations, emphasizing its commitment to safety through comprehensive risk management systems.
The vehicle linked to the New Orleans event has since been disabled on the rental platform, underscoring the company’s response to potential threats and concerns for public safety.
The investigation into Shamsud-Din Jabbar’s actions continues as authorities scrutinize his motives and the troubling turn from veteran to suspect in a grave act of violence.
Source: Wsvn
