Washington, Jan 2 (IANS) – Authorities are investigating the New Orleans New Year’s Eve attack that claimed 15 lives, suspecting ISIS influence. Possible connections to a Las Vegas explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside a Trump Organization property are also under scrutiny.
Details of the New Orleans Attack
The attacker, identified by the FBI as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US citizen from Texas, had reportedly posted videos on social media expressing his allegiance to ISIS just hours before ploughing into crowds of New Year’s Eve revelers in a popular area.
An ISIS flag was found in the vehicle used in the attack, prompting FBI investigations into potential affiliations with terrorist organizations.
Las Vegas Tesla Explosion
The same night, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside a Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, injuring several people. The FBI and intelligence agencies are investigating whether this incident is connected to the New Orleans attack.
Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and ally of former President Donald Trump, suggested a possible link. “Appears likely to be an act of terrorism. Both this Cybertruck and the F-150 suicide bomb in New Orleans were rented from Turo, possibly linking the incidents, ” Musk said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Presidential Address
President Joe Biden, addressing the nation from Camp David, stated, “This situation is fluid, and the investigation is in its preliminary stage. I have directed my team to ensure every resource is made available to federal, state, and local law enforcement to complete the investigation swiftly.”
Biden confirmed that authorities are exploring all angles to determine if there is a coordinated terror plot.
Rising Death Toll
The death toll from the New Orleans attack has risen to 15, with dozens injured. The attacker’s motives and any connections to broader terrorist networks are under active investigation.
Turo Rentals Under Investigation
Both vehicles used in the incidents were rented from Turo, a car-sharing app similar to Airbnb. This raises concerns about the app's security measures and its potential exploitation by malicious actors.