Following the New Year's Day ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people and injured dozens, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are warning law enforcement agencies across the country about possible copycat attacks. warned that there would be.
Two federal agencies issued public service announcements to approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the country highlighting the potential public safety threat posed by violent extremists.
Authorities, including local police and sheriff's departments, warned those who wear uniforms to be extremely wary of copycat attacks after the New Orleans attack.
“The FBI and DHS are concerned about the potential for copycat and retaliatory attacks as vehicle ramming continues to be used as a tactic to target violent extremist attackers,” the PSA said. “Previous attackers inspired by Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) who have carried out vehicle attacks in the United States and abroad have used readily available rental, stolen, and personally owned vehicles.”
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EDS Note: Graphic Content – On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, troopers investigate a scene on Bourbon Street after a vehicle plows into a crowd at Canal and Bourbon Street in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
The PSA also noted that some of the attackers used additional weapons, such as firearms and knives, to attack individuals after the vehicle stopped.
The PSA said some attempted to hide or pre-plant improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to supplement vehicle attacks.
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Attacks have not only targeted pedestrians, but also law enforcement and military personnel, as well as crowded public places such as festivals and commercial centers that are accessible by road.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant for the possibility of copycat or retaliatory attacks and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement,” federal officials said in a statement.
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This alert does not provide specific intelligence alerts regarding specific copycat attacks. Instead, this is a general warning to remind people to be careful.
