FBI Unveils Detailed Timeline of New Orleans Terrorist’s Reconnaissance Before Deadly Attack

Federal authorities have released an alarming new timeline detailing the meticulous planning by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the individual behind the deadly New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans. The chilling narrative outlines how Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Texas, scoped out his “kill zone” months before executing the attack, which left 14 dead and dozens injured on Bourbon Street.

According to the FBI, Jabbar’s preparations began in earnest in 2023 with international travel to Cairo, Egypt, from June 22 to July 3. Following his return to the U.S., he made at least two trips to New Orleans in October and November of the same year. During these visits, Jabbar donned Meta smart glasses to record video footage of the French Quarter, particularly focusing on Bourbon Street, which would later become the site of the attack.

The timeline further reveals that Jabbar was not only observing the area for its suitability as an attack location but also actively preparing for the assault. He was seen placing potential improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in coolers around the area, which were captured by surveillance cameras. Although these IEDs did not detonate during the attack, they indicate a premeditated plan to cause maximum harm.

On the day of the attack, January 1, 2025, Jabbar drove from Houston to New Orleans, a journey he documented through a series of five social media videos where he pledged allegiance to ISIS and expressed his intentions. His final video was posted mere minutes before he rammed his rented Ford F-150 truck into crowds celebrating the New Year, killing 14 people and injuring 35 others.

The FBI’s investigation has so far found no evidence of accomplices in the U.S., though they continue to explore potential international connections related to Jabbar’s travels. The discovery of an ISIS flag in the vehicle used in the attack underscores the terrorist motivation behind this heinous act.

This detailed account of Jabbar’s actions before the attack has prompted a broader discussion on security measures, surveillance technology, and the ongoing threat of lone-wolf terrorism inspired by extremist ideologies. It has also led to an increased focus on preventing similar attacks, with law enforcement agencies nationwide reviewing their strategies to counter such threats.

As the investigation continues, the FBI is urging anyone with further information on Jabbar or his activities to come forward, while the community of New Orleans mourns and begins the process of healing from this tragic event.