U.S. President Joe Biden Identifies ISIS Inspiration in New Orleans Massacre
At least 15 people were killed in a New Orleans shooting on New Year’s Eve, according to the White House. The suspect, a 42-year-old former U.S. soldier, was an ISIS sympathizer, President Biden said in a statement on Wednesday evening. The attacker had posted videos on social media that suggested he was inspired by the terrorist group, particularly his desire to kill.
The suspect, who was killed by police in a shootout, had also recorded a series of videos addressing his family, which CNN reported may have been made during a road trip from Texas to Louisiana. The exact timing of the recordings is unknown.
In the videos, the suspect reportedly spoke about initially planning a “party” for his family, only to change his plan and join ISIS after having several dreams that led him to believe he was part of the terrorist organization.
The attack in New Orleans occurred in a popular nightlife area, with the suspect using his car to kill at least 15 people and injure many more. Two police officers were also injured in a shootout with the attacker.
Separately, an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck in front of the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas has raised concerns about a possible connection to the New Orleans attack. Both incidents involved vehicles rented through the Turo platform, but President Biden declined to comment on a potential link during his statement on Wednesday.