HOUSTON, Texas — The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has conducted a second search of a residence in Houston, Texas, linked to Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect accused of driving a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on New Year’s Day.
The attack, which resulted in numerous casualties, is being investigated as a deliberate act of violence.
During the search, federal agents uncovered precursor chemicals at the Houston property, further advancing their investigation.
Previously, bomb-making materials had been discovered at the same location, and the FBI’s return to the property suggests they are seeking additional evidence related to the New Orleans incident.
Authorities have confirmed that Jabbar, a former U.S. Army member, is believed to have acted alone in the attack, though they continue to investigate his motives and any potential connections to extremist groups.
The New Orleans attack is now recognized as the second deadliest on U.S. soil linked to a foreign terrorist organization.
Investigators are focusing on Jabbar’s background, particularly his military service. He served in the U.S. Army from 2006 to 2015 and was deployed in Afghanistan in 2009.
The FBI is looking into how his military experience may have influenced the planning and execution of the attack.
While the FBI has stated that there is no evidence suggesting other attackers were involved, they are investigating Jabbar’s digital footprint, including his social media activity, to determine if he had any communications with violent groups or individuals.
In response to the attack, local authorities in New Orleans are reviewing security measures for public events, working closely with federal agencies to improve safety protocols.
Jabbar remains in custody and faces multiple charges related to the attack. Legal proceedings are ongoing as the investigation continues.