Feds Warn About Possible Copycat Attacks After Deadly Vehicle Assault

The FBI and DHS have issued an urgent warning about potential copycat attacks following the deadly New Year’s Day vehicular assault in New Orleans, raising concerns about public safety and national security.

At a Glance

FBI and DHS warn of possible copycat vehicle attacks after the New Orleans tragedy.
The New Orleans attack on New Year’s Day resulted in 14 deaths and over 30 injuries.
The attack suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was a former U.S. Army soldier who expressed support for ISIS.
No specific threat has been identified, but the public is urged to remain vigilant.
The warning comes days before President-elect Trump’s inauguration.

Joint Warning from Federal Agencies

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have jointly issued a bulletin warning of potential “copycat attacks” following the recent vehicular assault in New Orleans. The agencies have highlighted the threat of vehicle ramming attacks targeting crowded public venues, a tactic that has gained traction among violent extremists both domestically and abroad.

No specific threat has been identified, and the warning is not based on any new threat or plot. Instead, it serves as a precautionary measure to heighten awareness and preparedness among law enforcement agencies and the public. The bulletin emphasizes the need for vigilance in the face of potential threats.

FBI, DHS warn of possible copycat efforts following New Orleans attack https://t.co/tQpsGiGRmC

— News 19 (@whnt) January 13, 2025

The New Orleans Attack

The impetus for this warning stems from the tragic events that unfolded in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former U.S. Army soldier who had expressed support for ISIS, allegedly carried out a deliberate vehicular attack that claimed 14 lives and left over 30 people injured. This horrific incident has sent shockwaves through the nation and raised concerns about the potential for similar attacks.

The New Orleans attack involved a rented pickup truck being driven into a crowd, a method that has been employed in terrorist attacks both in the United States and abroad. The simplicity and accessibility of this tactic make it particularly concerning for law enforcement agencies.

Heightened Security Measures

In response to the attack and the subsequent warning, New Orleans is taking steps to increase security measures, particularly in high-traffic areas like the French Quarter. With upcoming events such as Carnival and the Super Bowl on the horizon, authorities are implementing traffic blockades and boosting security presence to safeguard residents and visitors alike.

The timing of this warning is particularly significant, coming just days before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. The event, which traditionally draws large crowds to Washington D.C., presents a potential target for those seeking to carry out attacks similar to the one in New Orleans.

Public Vigilance Is Key

Law enforcement agencies stress that public cooperation is crucial in preventing potential attacks. Citizens are urged to remain alert and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities immediately. The FBI and DHS emphasize that while it can be challenging to identify specific characteristics indicating an individual’s intent to commit violence, community awareness plays a vital role in early detection and prevention.