Takeaways:
- Two separate violent incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas involved former U.S. Army soldiers.
- Authorities have found no concrete link between the two attacks despite similarities.
- The New Orleans attack has been labeled as a terrorist act inspired by ISIS.
- Investigations are ongoing to uncover more details about motives and connections.
Two shocking attacks unfolded just hours apart on New Year’s Day: a truck plowing into a crowd on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, and an explosion outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Both incidents involved former U.S. Army soldiers, Shamsud-Din Jabbar and Matthew Livelsberger, raising questions about potential connections. Here’s what we know so far:
New Orleans Attack: An Act of Terrorism
Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, carried out a deadly attack on Bourbon Street, ramming a rented Ford F-150 EV into New Year’s revelers. The assault killed at least 15 people and injured dozens. Jabbar was shot dead in a gunfight with responding officers.
Authorities confirmed the attack was premeditated and inspired by ISIS. An ISIS flag was discovered in the vehicle, and Jabbar had posted videos pledging allegiance to the terrorist group. Before his death, he planted two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) hidden in coolers along Bourbon Street, although they failed to detonate.
FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia stated: “Let me be clear about this point – this was an act of terrorism. It was premeditated and an evil act.” Investigators believe Jabbar acted alone and are no longer seeking additional suspects.
Las Vegas Explosion: Under Investigation
Hours after the New Orleans attack, Matthew Livelsberger, 37, died in an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Livelsberger had rented the truck via the Turo app. Investigators believe he shot himself before triggering the blast, which sent flames and debris into the air but caused no further casualties.
Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed no evidence yet links Livelsberger to any terrorist organization. “We’re running down leads globally but have found no information connecting him to a terror network,” said FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans.
Military Backgrounds: A Common Thread
Both attackers served in the U.S. Army and deployed to Afghanistan in 2009, though authorities emphasize they were not in the same unit or location. Jabbar served as a human resources and IT specialist, while Livelsberger was an Army Green Beret.
Shared Use of Technology
Both men rented electric vehicles through the Turo app, sparking questions about security measures in peer-to-peer vehicle rentals. Turo released a statement expressing condolences and confirmed cooperation with law enforcement.
Authorities Seek Witnesses
In New Orleans, security footage revealed multiple individuals near the planted IEDs before walking away. The FBI is urging these witnesses to come forward to help piece together events leading up to the attack.
Ongoing Investigations
While the New Orleans attack has been definitively labeled as terrorism, authorities are still examining whether Livelsberger’s actions had a similar motive or were connected. Both incidents underscore the potential dangers posed by individuals with military training.
David Katz, CEO of Global Security Group, noted, “Sometimes military service brings like-minded people together. Those individuals, equipped with military training, can pose significant risks.”
Conclusion
These two incidents have left communities in shock and mourning. Authorities continue to investigate, working to uncover connections and prevent future attacks. Witnesses and anyone with information are encouraged to contact law enforcement.