Real Estate Agent, Army Sergeant: Who Is Shamsuddin Jabbar, the Man Behind New Year’s Massacre in the U.S.?

The New Year’s attack in New Orleans claimed 15 lives, with the FBI identifying Shamsuddin Jabbar, a former soldier and real estate agent, as the perpetrator. Jabbar, who faced financial struggles and personal turmoil, was killed in a police encounter.

By Joseph Mathews Jan 2, 2025, 12:27 IST

At least 15 died, and over 30 were reported injured after a devastating attack at New Orleans during New Year festivities. The incident has been labeled by the FBI as a potential terror attack and is now looking to get into the background of the assailant, Shamsuddin Jabbar, described as a 42-year-old former army sergeant and real estate agent from Texas. It seems that there could be more perpetrators.

Jabbar was in the U.S. Army from 2007 to 2015 as an HR manager and IT specialist. He was deployed to Afghanistan from 2009 to 2010. He retired as a staff sergeant in 2020. Before his military career, he was charged with theft in 2002 and using an illegal license in 2005.

Personal Problems and Struggles

Jabbar was financially struggling, according to emails sent to his ex-wife whom he divorced in 2022. He complained about his inability to pay his mortgage and reported a company loss of more than $28,000 the previous year.

The Attack and Evidence Found

The attack took place in New Orleans' French Quarter at 3:15 a.m. when it ended with a police shootout that killed Jabbar. Authorities found a handgun, an AR-style rifle, and an ISIS flag in the truck he drove. The FBI also found potential explosive devices, which heightened the suspicion of a larger conspiracy.