Tragedy Strikes New Orleans: Investigating the Motive

Authorities are probing the motives behind a U.S. Army veteran's attack in New Orleans, who plowed a truck into a crowd, killing 15. The attacker displayed an Islamic State flag, raising concerns about terror links. Security has been intensified ahead of major events, including the Sugar Bowl.

The investigation into why a U.S. Army veteran displayed an Islamic State flag while driving into a New Year's crowd intensified on Thursday. Authorities heightened security in anticipation of the Sugar Bowl football game, happening near the attack site, as they explored the possible involvement of Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect, in the planning of the deadly attack.

The probe, focusing on Jabbar's potential accomplices, comes after the discovery of weapons and explosives in his vehicle. The attack left at least 15 dead and injured two police officers, occurring in New Orleans' historic French Quarter. Meanwhile, a separate incident involving a Tesla Cybertruck explosion near Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas is also under scrutiny for possible connections.

U.S. President Joe Biden labeled the act as "despicable" while assuring an ongoing thorough investigation. The incident cast a shadow over New Year celebrations and upcoming events such as the NFL Super Bowl in New Orleans, prompting boosted security nationwide, including key locations like Trump Tower and Times Square in New York City.

(With inputs from agencies.)