WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden called the terrorist attack in New Orleans that killed 15 people and injured dozens more “despicable” in an address to the nation Wednesday, vowing to keep the public informed.
Speaking from Camp David in Maryland, Biden detailed what he was briefed on, providing new details about the incident and the attacker.
“I want you to know I grieve with you. Our nation grieves with you. We’re going to stand with you as you mourn and as you heal in the weeks to come,” Biden said.
Biden said the FBI briefed him that the suspect posted videos to social media “indicating that he was inspired by ISIS, expressing a desire to kill.”
“The investigation is continuing to be active, and no one should jump to conclusions,” Biden said.
“So many people around the world love New Orleans because of its history, its culture and, above all, its people,” he said. “So I know while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated. It always will shine forth.”
The President thanked first responders, homeland security and law enforcement officials. He also took the time to briefly address the attack in Las Vegas, which saw a Tesla cyber truck explode outside Donald Trump’s hotel — which Fwrd Axis News reported is being investigated as a possible terrorist attack.
Authorities are investigating any connection between the incident and the New Orleans attack.
Just hours into the new year, a Texas man drove his truck flying an ISIS flag through a crowd celebrating New Year’s Eve in New Orleans early Wednesday morning, killing at least 15 and injuring more than 30 others.
As a result of the attack, the Sugar Bowl college football game in New Orleans was postponed to 4 p.m. ET Thursday.
Biden said in a statement that he had directed his team “to ensure every resource is available as federal, state, and local law enforcement work assiduously to get to the bottom of what happened as quickly as possible and to ensure that there is no remaining threat of any kind.”
