New details are emerging about Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect in the New Orleans terror attack that claimed 15 lives and injured dozens. A high school classmate, who reconnected with Jabbar via Facebook several years ago, has shared insights into his radicalization, describing how Jabbar had become “enthralled in his faith” before carrying out the tragic attack.
Speaking with CNN’s Brianna Keilar, the classmate recounted their earlier friendship and how Jabbar’s demeanor had drastically changed over the years. Known as “Sham” in high school, Jabbar was remembered as quiet but kind. Their reconnection on social media revealed a shift, with Jabbar frequently posting about religion and expressing increasingly rigid views. Over time, the classmate noted that his posts began to include extremist rhetoric, though there were no direct indications of violent intent.
Authorities have confirmed that Jabbar posted several videos on social media just hours before driving a truck into a crowded New Year’s celebration in New Orleans. In these videos, he pledged allegiance to ISIS and framed his actions as part of a broader ideological struggle. Investigators believe these posts indicate his radicalization was deeply rooted and deliberate.
The classmate’s comments add to a growing narrative about how social media can serve as both a tool for connection and a platform for extremist influence. Experts emphasize that cases like Jabbar’s highlight the challenges of identifying individuals at risk of radicalization and intervening before such ideologies manifest in violence.
Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran, has been described by federal investigators as acting alone in the attack. He was killed in a shootout with police shortly after the incident. The FBI continues to investigate his activities, focusing on his connections, potential sources of radicalization, and any warning signs that may have been overlooked.
The New Orleans tragedy has reignited conversations about the role of online platforms in spreading extremist ideologies and the responsibility of tech companies to address radical content. Advocacy groups are calling for stronger measures to detect and remove posts promoting violence and terrorism, alongside efforts to support individuals at risk of radicalization.
As authorities piece together the details of Jabbar’s life and motivations, the community remains shaken by the events and mourns the lives lost. The classmate, reflecting on their past friendship, expressed a mix of sadness and disbelief, struggling to reconcile the person they once knew with the man behind such a horrific act.
The investigation continues, with officials urging the public to come forward with any additional information about Jabbar’s activities or online behavior. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the intersection between personal faith, radicalization, and the devastating impact of extremism.
