15 killed in US' New Orleans attack; ISIS flag found in truck

In a shocking New Year's Day tragedy, a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street in New Orleans' French Quarter, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. Officials have confirmed that the attack is being treated as an act of terrorism.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation identified the suspect as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas. A black ISIS flag was seen flying from the rear bumper of the truck, an electric Ford model, which was reportedly rented days earlier in Houston. Authorities believe Jabbar acted under the influence of extremist ideologies and posted videos expressing his intent to kill shortly before the attack.

During televised remarks, President Biden condemned the attack, revealing that Jabbar’s social media posts pointed to inspiration from ISIS. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick confirmed that Jabbar rented the vehicle on December 30 before traveling to New Orleans.

FBI special agent Alethea Duncan stated that Jabbar might not have acted alone. "We are investigating a range of suspects and do not want to rule out potential affiliations or assistance," she said during a press conference. The FBI is thoroughly examining Jabbar’s connections to determine if he had support from terrorist organizations.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the nation as authorities ramp up security and call for vigilance. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell expressed condolences to the victims and their families and promised to support the federal investigation.