A discovery by the FBI in Harris County, Texas, links sulfuric acid in a storage locker to a veteran’s radicalized terror plot.
At a Glance
- FBI agents found a cooler containing sulfuric acid in a Texas storage locker.
- The sulfuric acid is linked to Shamsud-Din Jabbar’s attack in New Orleans.
- Authorities found evidence of Jabbar’s ISIS affiliations through social media posts.
- Jabbar was ultimately killed by police after a failed bomb plot.
Investigation Unveils Alarming Chemical Connection
The FBI and Harris County Sheriff’s Office discovered sulfuric acid in a storage unit on Walters Road, Houston, during their inquiry into the Bourbon Street attack in New Orleans. The acid, crucial for explosive manufacture, was linked to Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former army veteran. Authorities executed a court-authorized search, ensuring public safety by confirming no immediate threat from the discovered materials.
The attack was a coordinated act of terror inspiring grave concerns over home-grown radicalization. Investigators have tied the chemicals to Jabbar’s New Orleans attack plan, which included RDX-laid improvised explosive devices. Fortunately, these bombs did not detonate, sparing potential casualties.
A Notorious Plot Inspired by Radical Ideation
Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who executed his attack on Bourbon Street alone, carried out the tragic incident under ISIS influence. Surveillance footage has revealed him placing IEDs in coolers across New Orleans. Tragically, his actions resulted in the loss of 14 lives and injuries to many more. Authorities disclosed Jabbar recorded videos expressing ideological support for ISIS.
Jabbar’s dangerous transition from targeting individuals to attempting mass harm underscores the grave threat such radicalization poses. Despite his end at police hands after the attack, his intent continues to alarm the nation regarding domestic terrorism threats.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Safety Assurances
Local residents expressed shock over discovering a threat of this magnitude in their neighborhood. SpareBox Storage, typically operating without visible staff, further added to the unease. Jabbar’s explosion-linked materials discovered at his residence, including potential silencers, fueled such concerns.
“You wouldn’t believe that, you know, so close to home that this could be going on,” commented local resident Earnest Washington.
Authorities continue to assure the public that there is no residual threat following their searches. However, agencies emphasize remaining vigilant against such hidden dangers posed by radicalized individuals within communities.
Sources:
- FBI finds cooler, sulfuric acid inside NW Harris County storage unit tied to New Orleans attack suspect
- Shamsud-Din Jabbar stored cooler filled with sulfuric acid in rented Texas storage unit before New Orleans terror attack: FBI