Former First Lady Melania Trump has spoken out about the shocking violence that unfolded in New Orleans and Las Vegas on New Year’s Day, calling it “deeply concerning” and stressing that “brutality must stop.”
On social media, she shared her thoughts and offered prayers to the families impacted by these tragic events: “My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the families who are experiencing such profound grief and loss.”
What Happened?
The violence began early Wednesday morning. In New Orleans, an attack in the French Quarter during the city’s New Year celebrations left at least 15 dead and 30 others injured. Authorities named Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, as the suspect, who allegedly had ties to the terrorist group ISIS. The FBI found troubling evidence, including an ISIS flag, weapons, and possible bombs in Jabbar’s rented truck.
Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded in front of the Trump International Hotel, killing one person and injuring seven others. The explosion wasn’t due to a defect in the vehicle but possibly linked to large fireworks or a bomb. Both incidents are being treated as possible acts of terrorism.
Why It Matters
Both attacks were linked to the Turo app, with authorities looking into any connections between the two incidents. President Joe Biden addressed both tragedies, reassuring the public that law enforcement and intelligence agencies are on the case. So far, there’s no evidence to suggest a direct connection between the two attacks.
In New Orleans, the attack took place around 4:15 a.m. EST. The victims identified so far include Reggie Hunter, Nikyra Dedeaux, Tiger Bech, and Nicole Perez.
President Biden confirmed that Jabbar had posted videos to social media supporting ISIS just hours before the violence erupted. The suspect had also stayed at an Airbnb, which burned down earlier the same day.
What People Are Saying
- New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick: “This is not just an act of terrorism. This is evil.”
- Senator John Kennedy: “Once the FBI investigates, we will know the truth. If not, I’ll raise fresh hell.”
- Eric Trump: “Earlier today, an electric vehicle fire occurred at Trump Las Vegas. The safety and well-being of our guests and staff remain our top priority.”
- FBI Special Agent Jeremy Schwartz: “We don’t have all the answers yet, but we are investigating.”
What’s Next?
Both investigations are still active. The FBI is leading the investigation into the New Orleans attack, and anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to them. The Las Vegas explosion is still under investigation, with both local police and the FBI working together.
President Biden urged people to avoid jumping to conclusions while the investigations continue, saying, “The investigation continues to be active, and no one should jump to conclusions.”
It’s a heartbreaking way to start the year, and the nation is waiting for more answers as these investigations unfold.
