The president stated that no links have been found between the recent incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas, emphasizing that the New Orleans attacker acted alone. This update followed a meeting with his Homeland Security team, where he instructed them to continue investigating potential connections.
Authorities have identified the New Orleans attacker as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Texas native and U.S. citizen who had served in the Army. Jabbar used a rented truck displaying an ISIS flag during the attack, which resulted in numerous casualties.
Meanwhile, the individual who died in a Cybertruck explosion near the Las Vegas Trump International Hotel was identified as Matthew Alan Livelsberger, another former active-duty Army service member.
During his address, the president noted that both individuals had military backgrounds and confirmed that federal agencies are investigating their motives, particularly focusing on the Las Vegas case. In New Orleans, the number of fatalities has risen to 15, including the attacker, with 35 more people injured. The FBI reported that Jabbar had also planted explosives in the area and used a remote detonator from his vehicle.
The president shared additional details, mentioning that the attacker had posted pro-ISIS videos hours before carrying out the act. Investigators are currently examining any communications he may have had, whether domestic or international.
Despite these events, the Sugar Bowl, delayed by a day, was set to proceed, and Bourbon Street was reopening, showcasing the resilience of New Orleans.
Earlier in the day, the president held discussions with Vice President Harris and his Homeland Security team to review updates on both incidents. He directed all necessary resources to be made available for law enforcement to expedite their investigations.
In response to the events, President-elect Trump criticized the current administration’s border policies on social media, attributing the rise in violent crime, including these recent attacks, to immigration issues in the U.S.
