FBI and DHS Warn of Potential Copycat Attacks Following New Orleans Incident
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have issued a public safety announcement highlighting the possibility of copycat or retaliatory attacks in the wake of the recent vehicle-ramming incident in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. The attack, which officials say was inspired by ISIS, underscores the ongoing risk posed by violent extremists.
According to the FBI and DHS, vehicle ramming remains an attractive tactic for extremists due to the ease of access to vehicles—whether rented, stolen, or personally owned. Past incidents have shown attackers may also use firearms, knives, or improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in conjunction with vehicle attacks. Common targets include pedestrians, law enforcement, military personnel, and large gatherings such as festivals or commercial areas near roadways.
The agencies have urged the public to stay vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. “Public safety is our top priority, and we are working closely with state and local partners to provide the necessary resources to safeguard our communities,” the announcement stated.
Individuals can report suspicious activity through the FBI’s tip site at tips.fbi.gov or by contacting their local FBI field office. Emergencies, including imminent threats to life, should be reported by calling 911.
In an effort to prevent such attacks, the FBI, DHS, and the National Counterterrorism Center have developed resources for law enforcement, first responders, and community leaders. These include educational materials, training guides, and a recently declassified publication titled U.S. Violent Extremist Mobilization Indicators 2021 Edition, which provides insights into behaviors that may signal an individual’s intent to carry out an attack.
The announcement highlights the difficulty of identifying specific signs of radicalization or intent to commit violence, given the deeply personal nature of such processes. Nonetheless, bystanders are encouraged to report any observable behavior that may indicate a threat.
The FBI and DHS emphasize that public vigilance and timely reporting play a crucial role in preventing potential attacks and ensuring public safety.
Due to the highly personal nature of radicalization to violence and mobilization to violence, it can be difficult to assess specific characteristics indicating the intent of US-based violent extremists to conduct violence. The FBI and DHS urge bystanders to promptly report suspicious activities potentially related to violent extremist activity, including indications of possible online radicalization to violence and mobilization for attacks.
DHS also has developed several other unclassified resources for communities to help promote bystander awareness of potentially threatening or concerning behaviors that are observable to others and enhance the capacity to identify and mitigate threats through behavioral threat assessment and management, including publicly available training and prevention guides.