In a recent development, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have issued a stern warning about the potential for "possible copycat or retaliatory attacks" in the wake of the ISIS-inspired terrorist attack that occurred on New Year's Day in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The attack, orchestrated by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, resulted in the tragic loss of 14 lives and left numerous others injured.
As reported by Fox News, the warning was disseminated to approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide, a response to the recent terrorist act in New Orleans. The joint statement from the FBI and DHS highlighted the appeal of vehicle ramming as a tactic for those with violent extremist intentions. "Previous attackers inspired by foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) who have conducted vehicle attacks in the United States and abroad have used rented, stolen, and personally owned vehicles, which are easy to acquire," the warning stated.
The agencies further elaborated that past attackers have supplemented their "vehicle ramming" assaults with other weapons, such as knives and firearms, to attack individuals once the vehicle has ceased motion. The warning also suggested that potential attackers might attempt to "conceal and pre-position improvised explosive devices" in conjunction with a "vehicle attack."
According to American Military News, the FBI and DHS issued the public service announcement to "highlight a potential public safety threat from violent extremists" in the aftermath of the New Orleans terrorist attack. The federal government pledged to collaborate with state and local law enforcement agencies to "ensure they have the resources and information necessary to keep our communities safe."
The warning emphasized that "vehicle ramming" attacks have targeted law enforcement officials, military personnel, pedestrians, and crowded public spaces, such as commercial centers and festivals. The agencies urged the public to remain vigilant regarding possible copycat or retaliatory attacks and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
The Daily Wire identified the suspect in the New Orleans terrorist attack as a 42-year-old Army veteran. He was reportedly filmed firing at police officers after driving his truck into a crowd of people on Bourbon Street on New Year's Day. The suspect also allegedly placed improvised explosive devices on Bourbon Street. Fortunately, these explosives were not detonated, and the suspect was shot and killed by local law enforcement officials, who found a detonation transmitter and an ISIS flag in the suspect's truck.
The New Orleans terrorist attack, as reported by The Daily Wire, was the deadliest U.S. terrorist attack since 2016. This alarming incident underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential threats, as well as the need for robust cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
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