NEW ORLEANS, LA — In the aftermath of a deadly attack on New Year’s Day that left at least 10 dead and dozens injured on Bourbon Street, the FBI is facing mounting criticism for its initial misclassification of the incident as “not a terrorist event,” despite significant evidence to the contrary.
The attack unfolded early on New Years Day, when a truck was driven into a crowded area, followed by reports of gunfire and the discovery of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at the scene.
Despite these alarming details, Alethea Duncan, assistant special agent in charge for the FBI’s New Orleans office, stated at a press conference shortly after the attack, “This is not a terrorist event.”
The premature statement drew backlash from officials, experts, and the public, particularly after revelations that the suspect, Samshud Din Jabbar, was part of a group, and an ISIS flag was found in the vehicle. This forced the FBI to reverse its initial position and later classify the attack as an act of terrorism.
Critics argue the FBI’s misstep has jeopardized public trust in the agency. Early dismissal of terrorism not only underestimated the threat but also delayed the appropriate level of security response, investigative focus, and public alert.
“The FBI’s inconsistency in assessing the situation has led to public confusion and frustration,” said a former intelligence official familiar with counterterrorism protocols. “In incidents of this magnitude, clarity and accuracy are paramount.”
The misclassification also risks impacting public vigilance, as initial statements downplaying the severity of attacks can create a false sense of security, especially when further attacks may be planned.
The FBI’s handling of the New Orleans attack has reignited concerns over its reliability in addressing terrorism-related incidents. Critics point to a history of perceived missteps by the agency, including controversial handling of past investigations and surveillance practices.
As the investigation into the New Orleans attack continues, authorities are working to uncover the extent of the terrorist network involved. Meanwhile, restoring public confidence in federal law enforcement remains a pressing challenge.