NEW ORLEANS, USA – The New Orleans attacker who drove a pickup truck into a crowd of Bourbon Street revellers on New Year’s Day used Meta smart glasses to scout and film the area in preparation for the assault, FBI officials revealed Sunday.
The attacker, identified as 42-year-old Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had visited New Orleans twice in the months leading up to the attack.
During these visits, he reportedly used the advanced wearable technology to capture video footage while cycling through the French Quarter, including Bourbon Street.
“This suggests a significant level of planning and premeditation,” said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil during a news conference on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
The revelation came just days after Jabbar drove a truck into a crowded area on Bourbon Street in the early hours of January 1, killing 14 and injuring at least 35.
After the vehicle crashed into a cherry picker forklift, Jabbar exited the truck and opened fire on responding police officers, who fatally shot him.
Eduardo Munoz/Reuters
Meta Glasses and Planning
While executing the attack, Jabbar wore Meta smart glasses but did not activate them during the event.
Investigators believe he used the glasses during his previous visits to record the layout and activity on Bourbon Street, helping him to meticulously plan the assault.
Jabbar stayed in a rental home in New Orleans during his October 30 visit and was seen cycling and filming the area.
He returned on November 10 for a second visit, and authorities are still piecing together details of that trip.
Attack Details
The attack occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m., as New Year’s celebrations wound down.
Jabbar bypassed a police barricade and drove his truck into a densely packed area of Bourbon Street.
Following the crash, he engaged police in a shootout, during which he was killed.
Two police officers were injured during the confrontation—one from gunfire and another after being pinned by the truck.
Federal Response
The FBI is leading the investigation into the attack, which has been classified as a criminal act, though Jabbar had publicly pledged allegiance to ISIS on social media.
An improvised explosive device was found at the scene and is under analysis to determine its viability.
“This is a tragic and senseless act of violence,” said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the attack, and federal authorities are coordinating with local agencies to assess any further threats.
Security Measures and Community Impact
The attack has raised concerns about the use of emerging technologies in planning criminal acts, with officials urging vigilance.
As New Orleans prepares for major upcoming events like the Sugar Bowl, law enforcement agencies are implementing heightened security measures across the city.
“This tragedy underscores the need for constant vigilance and proactive measures,” said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.
The FBI has asked anyone with information about Jabbar’s activities during his visits to New Orleans to come forward.
Investigators continue to work on uncovering the full scope of his plans and any potential accomplices.
The attack has left New Orleans residents reeling as the city mourns those lost in one of its darkest New Year’s mornings.
