Who Was Shamsud-Din Jabbar? Suspect In New Orleans Attack

The suspect in the New Orleans attack, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was a 42-year-old US citizen. He was known to have worked as a real estate agent in Texas and had served in the military. Jabbar faced financial troubles and went through a divorce. In a YouTube video from four years ago, he described himself as a "fierce negotiator" while promoting his property management services.

Jabbar's military career spanned from 2007 to 2015, during which he served as a human resource and IT specialist. He continued in the army reserve until 2020. An army spokesperson confirmed his deployment to Afghanistan from February 2009 to January 2010, ending his service as a Staff Sergeant. The FBI previously stated that he was honorably discharged.

Background and Personal Life

According to The New York Times, Jabbar had two minor criminal charges: theft in 2002 and driving with an invalid license in 2005. He was married twice, with his second marriage ending in divorce in 2022. In an email to his wife's lawyer, he expressed financial difficulties, stating he couldn't afford house payments and had incurred significant credit card debt for legal fees.

Abdur Jabbar, who identified himself as the suspect's brother, described him as "a sweetheart really, a nice guy, a friend, really smart, caring." He mentioned that Jabbar converted to Islam at a young age but emphasized that his actions did not represent Islam. "This is more some type of radicalization, not religion," he said.

Education and Online Activity

Georgia State University confirmed that Shamsud-Din Jabbar attended the institution from 2015 to 2017 and graduated with a bachelor's degree in computer systems. In his YouTube video—later removed—Jabbar praised his military experience for teaching him the importance of being meticulous and responsive.

President Joe Biden informed reporters that Jabbar shared videos online before the attack indicating inspiration from ISIS. A black flag associated with the group was found in the vehicle used during the attack. The FBI corroborated this information.

The Attack

The tragic incident resulted in at least 15 deaths and numerous injuries when Jabbar allegedly drove a truck into New Year's revelers at high speed. After crashing the vehicle, he opened fire but was killed during an exchange with police officers.