Shamsud-Din Jabbar’s Preparations
Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect behind the New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, meticulously planned his rampage, making two trips to the city in October and November to scout out the perfect location. Using his Meta smart glasses, he recorded a video of a bicycle ride through the French Quarter during his first visit, providing crucial evidence for investigators.
During a news conference, Lyonel Myrthil, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s New Orleans field office, revealed that Jabbar had also worn Meta glasses during the attack. However, surprisingly, he did not record the attack or attempt to livestream it, leaving authorities to piece together his motives through his previous actions.
Explosive Devices and Failed Detonation
Joshua Jackson, the special agent in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives field office in New Orleans, shed light on Jabbar’s failed attempt to detonate two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted in the French Quarter. These devices contained “R-Salt explosives,” which are easily obtained in the United States.
Despite the potential devastation, the IEDs failed to go off, either due to Jabbar’s death in a subsequent gun battle with police or his use of the wrong detonation mechanism. Jackson highlighted Jabbar’s inexperience and lack of understanding in handling such materials, indicating a rushed and unplanned approach to carrying out the attack.
Radicalization and International Connections
As investigators delve deeper into Jabbar’s background, they are attempting to unravel the mysteries surrounding his radicalization and potential international connections. Videos of Jabbar proclaiming his support for ISIS have surfaced, hinting at a possible motive for the attack.
Christopher Raia, FBI deputy assistant director, emphasized that while there is no evidence of direct assistance from ISIS or other individuals in the U.S., the investigation extends beyond borders to uncover any potential associates. Jabbar’s past travels to Cairo and Canada are under scrutiny, shedding light on his network and possible influences.
Weapon Acquisition and Legal Loopholes
The arsenal Jabbar used in the attack, including a 9mm semiautomatic pistol and a .308-caliber semiautomatic rifle with privately made silencers, raises concerns about the ease of obtaining such weapons. Jackson disclosed that Jabbar purchased the rifle through a private sale in Texas, highlighting the legal loopholes that allow individuals to acquire firearms without stringent background checks.
The revelation that Jabbar frequented gun stores in Houston before the attack underscores the need for tighter regulations and monitoring of potential extremists seeking to arm themselves. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by radicalized individuals exploiting legal avenues to carry out acts of terror.
