ABC News - Biden to New Orleans: ‘I grieve with you. Our nation grieves with you.’
President Biden addressed the nation following a deadly attack in New Orleans where a man drove a truck into a crowd, killing at least 15 people. The suspect, a 42-year-old military veteran, was found with an ISIS flag in his vehicle, suggesting potential terrorist motives. The FBI is investigating the incident as they suspect the attacker did not act alone and have discovered multiple IEDs in other locations. Biden praised first responders and law enforcement for their quick action and assured that federal resources are being utilized to ensure public safety and complete the investigation. He also mentioned a separate incident involving a cyber truck explosion in Las Vegas, which is under investigation for possible connections to the New Orleans attack. The President emphasized the resilience of New Orleans and pledged support for the city's recovery.
Key Points:
- President Biden confirmed the attack in New Orleans was potentially ISIS-inspired, with the suspect found with an ISIS flag.
- The suspect, a military veteran, drove a truck into a crowd, killing 15 and injuring dozens.
- The FBI is leading the investigation, suspecting the attacker may not have acted alone.
- Multiple IEDs were found, indicating a broader threat.
- Federal resources are being deployed to support the investigation and ensure public safety.
Details:
1. 🔴 Breaking News: Tragedy in New Orleans
- President Biden is preparing to address the nation about an attack that occurred earlier today in New Orleans.
- This is being covered as a special report by ABC News, indicating the significance and urgency of the situation.
- The details of the attack, including the number of casualties and the identity of the attackers, are yet to be confirmed.
- Authorities are on high alert, and immediate response measures have been initiated to ensure public safety.
2. 🚨 Details of the Attack: Suspect and Motive Unveiled
- At least 15 people were killed and dozens injured in a vehicular attack in the French Quarter of New Orleans.
- The attack involved a white pickup truck driven by a suspect who aimed to cause mass harm.
- The suspect drove through Bourbon Street for three blocks, deliberately targeting pedestrians.
- The driver shot at officers and civilians, indicating a highly violent intention.
- The suspect was identified as a 42-year-old military individual and was killed during the incident.
- The attack occurred during a busy evening in the French Quarter, amplifying its impact.
- Law enforcement responded swiftly, engaging the suspect, which prevented further casualties.
- Emergency services were on the scene quickly, aiding the injured and controlling the situation.
- The motive remains under investigation, though initial reports suggest the suspect had a history of erratic behavior.
3. 👮 Ongoing Investigation: IEDs and Suspect's Background
3.1. Ongoing Investigation and Findings
3.2. Suspect's Background and Motives
4. 🗣️ Presidential Address: Biden's Condolences and Assurance
- President Biden expressed condolences to the people of New Orleans following a despicable attack, pledging national support for the mourning and healing processes of affected families.
- He acknowledged the critical role of First Responders and law enforcement in preventing further casualties during the attack, extending gratitude for their bravery.
- Biden highlighted the ongoing efforts by the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, and FBI, with the FBI leading the investigation to uncover the attack's details and motives.
5. 🇺🇸 Federal Response: Investigation and National Security Measures
- The FBI identified the attacker as an American citizen born in Texas, with military service in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, emphasizing the need for thorough background checks in the armed forces.
- The attacker, inspired by ISIS, posted videos on social media expressing intent to kill, highlighting the importance of monitoring online extremist content.
- An ISIS flag and potential explosives were found in the attacker's vehicle, underlining the necessity for improved detection and prevention of terrorist materials.
- The investigation is in its early stages, focusing on uncovering any connections or co-conspirators, demonstrating the importance of inter-agency collaboration.
- The President has tasked the Attorney General, FBI Director, Secretary of Homeland Security, and head of the National Counterterrorism Center with coordinating the response, illustrating a coordinated national security strategy.
6. 💬 Biden's Commitment: Support for New Orleans' Recovery
6.1. Investigation Efforts and Intelligence Gathering
6.2. Biden's Support and Commitment to New Orleans
7. 🔍 Radicalization Concerns: ISIS Influence and Military Connection
- President Biden emphasized the need for federal resources to investigate radicalization concerns, highlighting the case of Shamsu Jin Jabar.
- The suspect, Shamsu Jin Jabar, is believed to have been inspired by ISIS, marking a significant national security concern.
- This case is not isolated; there have been previous instances of U.S. military members becoming radicalized, which underlines systemic challenges.
- Investigations focus on the suspect's recent online radicalization and his public displays of allegiance to ISIS, showcasing a pattern of behavior that authorities are struggling to mitigate.
- Terror groups have long encouraged attacks within the U.S., especially vehicle-ramming attacks, pointing to an ongoing security challenge that needs strategic countermeasures.