Federal and local law enforcement officials uncovered bomb-making materials at the Houston residence of Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect in the New Year’s Day truck attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people and injured 35 others. The discovery was made Thursday when FBI agents executed a search warrant at Jabbar’s last known address in the Greenspoint neighborhood of north Houston.
The materials, described as “precursor chemicals” by agents, were found as part of the ongoing investigation into the deadly attack.
Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran, was identified as the sole perpetrator after authorities reviewed surveillance footage showing him planting explosive devices before the attack and subsequently changing clothes.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that Jabbar also died in the attack. The FBI announced Thursday that they no longer believe any other suspects were involved.
“There is no additional threat to the public,” said Christopher Raia, an FBI spokesperson, calling the incident a “premeditated act of terrorism.”
While authorities have ruled out direct accomplices, the FBI continues to investigate whether Jabbar had communicated with others, domestically or internationally, prior to the attack.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation Thursday, stating, “Federal law enforcement and the intelligence community are actively investigating any foreign or domestic contacts that could possibly be relevant to the attack.”
The tragic New Year’s Day assault involved Jabbar driving a truck into a crowded area and detonating explosives, leaving the community reeling from the devastation.
Law enforcement officials have since been working to piece together Jabbar’s actions and motivations.
Sources indicate Jabbar had a military background but have not disclosed further details about his service. Investigators are examining whether his actions were influenced by ideological, personal, or other motivations.
The recovery of bomb-making materials underscores the calculated nature of the attack, with officials describing Jabbar’s preparations as meticulous.
Despite the horror of the incident, authorities are emphasizing the absence of any ongoing threats.
This attack marks one of the most devastating acts of domestic terrorism in recent memory. New Orleans and the entire nation is recalling the aftermath of this tragedy and questions are raised regarding the suspect’s motive as well as role of the security agencies in this matter.
