New Orleans: Two separate attacks carried out by former US military personnel resulted in multiple casualties this week, with investigations revealing that the suspects were veterans with extensive service records. In New Orleans, a former US Army staff sergeant drove a truck through a crowded tourist district, while in Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck explosion occurred outside Trump International Hotel.
According to Anadolu Agency, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a former US Army staff sergeant, was identified as the suspect in the New Orleans attack. Jabbar drove a truck through crowds on Wednesday, resulting in 15 deaths and 35 injuries, before being killed during a gunfire exchange with police. Jabbar's military history includes service in the US Army from 2007 to 2015, with a deployment to Afghanistan. He later served in the Army Reserves until 2020 and was honorably discharged. Despite his military accolades and a career as a real estate agent in Texas, Jabbar had prior legal issues, including misdemeanor theft and driving with an invalid license.
Reports indicate that Jabbar owned Blue Meadow Properties, a property management firm in Texas, though attempts to contact the company for comment were unsuccessful. His family and friends expressed shock over his actions, describing him as kind and disciplined. However, his most recent wife noted behavioral changes that led her to prevent their daughters from visiting him. President Joe Biden revealed that Jabbar had posted videos expressing support for ISIS before the attack, and the FBI continues to investigate his motives and any potential accomplices.
In a separate incident, a Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas resulted in one death and seven injuries. Media reports identify the suspect as Matthew Livelsberger, 37, allegedly a former 'Green Beret' and military veteran, though officials have not confirmed his identity. An unverified LinkedIn profile, now deleted, suggested he served 19 years in the US Army with roles in communications and intelligence. Authorities are investigating connections between the two incidents, with Tesla CEO Elon Musk hinting at a link, noting both vehicles were rented via the same app.
US authorities are actively investigating potential connections between the two attacks. President Biden emphasized the importance of utilizing all available resources to uncover the reasons behind these events and ensure public safety.