DC police increase security after New Orleans attack
The nation's capital became subjected to increased security measures following the vehicular attack in New Orleans on Wednesday.
The attack resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals and the injury of at least 35 others, as The Washington Examiner reported.
This precautionary measure has been put in motion, despite the fact that authorities have not identified any known threats to the city.
According to Paris Lewbel, the Metropolitan Police Department's deputy director of communications, the department increased its security measures throughout the city "out of an abundance of caution" in response to the New Orleans attack, despite the absence of any known threats to the city.
From Police
"Whenever an incident occurs in the country, MPD closely monitors the situation, evaluates intelligence, and assesses our security posture," Lewbel said.
“While we do not discuss specifics regarding operations, tactics, or staffing, the community will notice an increased police presence throughout the city."
The FBI is currently conducting an investigation into the New Orleans incident as "an act of terrorism" and is actively seeking additional suspects in the wake of the driver's fatal shooting by local law enforcement.
The Sugar Bowl, a collegiate football matchup between the University of Georgia and Notre Dame, was scheduled to take place on the same day as the attack and was postponed by one day.
See a statement below from the Metropolitan Police Department. pic.twitter.com/J8KpY9XHZj
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) January 1, 2025
There were already indications of increased security in the near future, as chain-link fencing was installed around the Capitol.
Since the events of January 6, 2021, which resulted in a temporary halt in the counting of Electoral College ballots in Congress, fencing has been installed around the historic building consistently. Additionally, it is normal to construct security fencing during the inauguration.
"While there is no known threat to the District of Columbia, out of an abundance of caution, MPD has heightened its security posture across the city in light of recent events," Lewbel said.
“As the nation’s capital, we maintain a heightened level of security at all times to ensure the safety of our residents, businesses, and visitors."
On the Suspect
Shamsud Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen and Army veteran residing in Texas, has been preliminarily identified by the FBI as the suspect in the New Orleans attack.
The authorities were in the process of searching for additional suspects in the attack and discovered numerous improvised explosive devices in his vehicle and in the French Quarter neighborhood of the city.
“As we approach upcoming major events in the District of Columbia, MPD will continue working with our local and federal partners to assess potential threats and make any necessary adjustments to safeguard the community,” Lewbel said.