President-elect Donald Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, addressed the incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas on New Year’s Day, describing them as “suicide missions” carried out by U.S. citizens with recent U.S. travel. Homan believes that both attackers had affiliations with ISIS and did not intend to return home after the attacks. The incidents are both being treated as acts of terrorism, and law enforcement is investigating any possible connections between the two events. The suspect in the New Orleans attack has been identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, while the suspect in the Las Vegas incident remains unnamed.
Both vehicles involved in the attacks were rented using the Turo app. In New Orleans, a truck exploded in the French Quarter during New Year’s Eve celebrations, resulting in multiple casualties. Four victims have been identified, and an ISIS flag, weapons, and a potential improvised explosive device (IED) were found in the suspect’s truck. President Joe Biden mentioned the Las Vegas incident during a press conference and stated that law enforcement and the intelligence community are looking into any possible connections between the two attacks. Donald Trump weighed in on the incidents, criticizing the current administration’s approach to border security and stating that criminals are entering the U.S.
In Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. Police are treating the incident as a possible criminal act and an act of terror. The FBI is leading the investigation into both cases, and anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI for assistance. Despite the ongoing investigations, there are no conclusive answers regarding the motives behind the attacks. Officials are cautioning against jumping to conclusions and emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into both incidents.
Senator John Kennedy, President-elect Donald Trump, former first lady Melania Trump, and the FBI have all issued statements in response to the attacks, expressing concern for the victims and calling for the violence to stop. Kennedy emphasized the importance of a comprehensive investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies, while Trump reiterated his stance on the need for stronger border security measures. Melania Trump offered her thoughts and prayers to the families affected by the tragic events, highlighting the need to address the brutality of the attacks. The FBI emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigations and urged the public not to make premature judgments about the incidents.
Moving forward, the FBI will continue to lead the investigations into both the New Orleans and Las Vegas attacks. The Las Vegas Police Department is also collaborating with federal agencies in probing the fire and explosion at the Trump International Hotel. President Biden emphasized the need for a cautious approach to the investigations and urged the public to avoid jumping to conclusions. As more information emerges, law enforcement will work to uncover the motives behind the attacks and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
