‘This wasn’t the man I knew’: Brother of New Orleans truck attacker says family is shocked, devastated by event

BEAUMONT, Texas – Authorities have identified a Texas military veteran as the suspect in a tragic New Year’s Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street that left 14 people dead and dozens injured. Family members of the suspect, 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, are expressing shock and disbelief over the incident.

Family in Shock Over Tragedy

Abdur Rahem Jabbar, the suspect’s younger brother, sat down with KPRC 2 to speak about his family’s reaction to the horrifying events.

“I understand people want answers, but we’re just as puzzled as the rest of the world,” said Abdur.

• FBI says there is ‘no threat to residents’ in NW Harris County area where New Orleans attacker lived

Shamsud-Din Jabbar, known to family and friends as “Sham,” grew up in Beaumont, attended Central High School, and later served in the U.S. Army, including a deployment to Afghanistan. After leaving the military, he settled in Houston and worked in the tech industry.

A Life That Showed No Warning Signs

Abdur described his brother as a devout Muslim who often spoke about his faith but never displayed any warning signs of violence.

“Sham believed his Islamic faith taught him that partying in places like New Orleans wasn’t righteous,” said Abdur. “But he never gave any red flags leading up to this.”

• Houston man behind New Orleans truck attack acted alone; first considered attacking relatives, officials say

Sham’s personal life included three children and two divorces, with the most recent one finalized in 2022. His brother noted that Sham felt financially burdened by his religious obligation to continue supporting his ex-wife’s home after their separation.

Despite these challenges, his family says he appeared to be leading a relatively normal life.

Grief and Prayers for the Victims

Abdur extended condolences to the victims and their families.

• Bourbon Street reopens with heavy police presence following New Year’s attack

“Our hearts, prayers, and thoughts go out to those families, the victims, and those who witnessed this tragedy,” he said. “This wasn’t the man I knew. This isn’t any representation of Islam or Muslims or the Muslim community.”

FBI Investigating Social Media Posts

Authorities are investigating whether social media activity may have foreshadowed the attack. Abdur said his family was informed by the FBI about a disturbing video connected to Sham but had not seen it prior to the attack.

• Who is Shamsud-Din Jabbar? Houston man linked to New Orleans New Year’s Attack

The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to piece together the motives behind this devastating incident.