FBI and DHS Alert on Potential Copycat Vehicle Ramming Attacks Similar to New Orleans Incident

The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have released a public alert, expressing apprehensions regarding the possibility of imitational vehicle ramming attacks reminiscent of the tragic New Year’s Day event in New Orleans, which resulted in 14 fatalities and numerous injuries.

“The FBI and DHS are wary of potential copycat or retaliatory incidents because vehicle ramming continues to attract aspiring violent extremism,” the agencies stated in a joint notification dated January 13.

The incident in New Orleans, allegedly fueled by ISIS propaganda, saw a vehicle forcefully entering a crowd. The perpetrator, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, exited the vehicle and was subsequently shot dead by police in a gunfire exchange.

Such attacks are particularly alarming due to their simplicity and the easy availability of vehicles that can be rented, hijacked, or owned, as highlighted by the agencies in their notice. In addition to using vehicles as instruments of harm, individuals committing similar acts have adopted further methods to maximize destruction.

“Some have employed additional weapons, including firearms and knives, to target individuals after the vehicle has halted,” the FBI and DHS remarked. “Furthermore, attackers might strive to hide and strategically position improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to enhance the impact of a vehicle attack.”

The assailant in the New Orleans tragedy possessed extra weapons—including an IED—in the Ford F-150 Lightning truck he used to ram through pedestrians across a three-block stretch of Bourbon Street. Approximately one hour before the assault, Jabbar planted homemade explosives in two coolers in other locations of the French Quarter, a bustling area filled with New Year’s festivities. Law enforcement has indicated that the two IEDs set by Jabbar did not detonate because he used an incompatible device to ignite them.

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In their warning against potential copycat incidents, the FBI and DHS indicated that targets of such attacks generally encompass large public gatherings, law enforcement personnel, military members, and busy locations like festivals, shopping centers, and places of worship. Given the potential for widespread devastation and loss of life, the agencies urged increased vigilance.

“The FBI and DHS call upon bystanders to swiftly report any suspicious activities that may be linked to violent extremism, including signs of possible online radicalization to violence and efforts to mobilize for attacks,” reads the alert.

The notice also underscored resources accessible to law enforcement, first responders, and community leaders designed to decrease vulnerabilities to such attacks. These resources include training guides and established practices for spotting threats and improving security measures in public areas.

Initially, investigators suspected that Jabbar might have had accomplices in the execution of the deadly New Orleans attack. However, as the investigation progressed, it was concluded that he acted alone in what is termed a “lone wolf” attack.

Trump faced two assassination attempts during his presidential campaign, including one where a would-be assassin’s shot narrowly missed him at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In the second incident, a gunman was discovered hiding at the Trump International Golf Course in West Palm Beach and fled without firing a shot after a Secret Service agent spotted him and fired several rounds in his direction.

William McCool, special agent in charge of the Secret Service, indicated during a January 13 press briefing that approximately 25,000 law enforcement and military officials will be present to ensure security on Inauguration Day.

“We have developed a more comprehensive security plan. Planning for this event has been underway for 12 months,” McCool stated. “All participants will undergo screening, and designated checkpoints will be established for the public wishing to attend the inauguration.”