The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a joint public service announcement (PSA) cautioning law enforcement agencies nationwide about the potential for copycat attacks following the ISIS-inspired New Year’s Day vehicle ramming attack in New Orleans. This tragic incident, which claimed the lives of 14 individuals and injured dozens more, underscored the persistent threat posed by violent extremists employing easily accessible tactics like vehicle attacks. The PSA, disseminated to approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the country, including local police and sheriff’s departments, emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and awareness among law enforcement personnel. The agencies stressed the importance of recognizing and reporting suspicious activity to mitigate the risk of similar attacks.
The PSA highlighted the concerning trend of vehicle ramming attacks as a preferred tactic for aspiring violent extremists. This method, requiring minimal resources and planning, poses a significant challenge for law enforcement due to its simplicity and potential for widespread imitation. The agencies noted that previous vehicle attacks inspired by foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) within the United States and internationally have involved a range of vehicles, including rented, stolen, and personally owned vehicles. This accessibility further amplifies the threat, as potential attackers can easily acquire the necessary means to carry out such an assault.
Furthermore, the PSA cautioned that some attackers have incorporated additional weapons into their assaults, utilizing firearms and knives to inflict further casualties after the initial vehicle impact. The use of secondary weapons contributes to the lethality of these attacks and complicates law enforcement response. The agencies also warned about the potential for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) being deployed in conjunction with vehicle attacks, either concealed within the vehicle or pre-positioned at the target location. This added layer of complexity necessitates heightened awareness and preparedness on the part of law enforcement to detect and neutralize such threats effectively.
The PSA underscored the diverse range of potential targets, extending beyond pedestrian areas to include law enforcement personnel, military members, and crowded public venues. Festivals, commercial centers, and any area accessible by roadways were identified as particularly vulnerable, given the ease with which a vehicle can be used to target large gatherings or symbolic locations. This broad spectrum of potential targets emphasizes the need for comprehensive security measures and vigilance across various sectors and public spaces. Law enforcement agencies are urged to implement appropriate security protocols and engage in proactive intelligence gathering to identify and disrupt potential threats.
The FBI and DHS, while not citing specific intelligence indicating an imminent copycat attack, emphasized the importance of public awareness and vigilance. The PSA serves as a general warning to the public, encouraging individuals to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. This collaborative approach to security relies on the public’s cooperation in identifying potential threats and reporting unusual behavior, thereby assisting law enforcement efforts to prevent attacks. The agencies emphasized the crucial role of community engagement and information sharing in maintaining public safety.
The joint PSA from the FBI and DHS represents a proactive measure to address the evolving threat landscape and prevent further tragedies. By highlighting the potential for copycat attacks and outlining the various tactics employed by violent extremists, the agencies aim to equip law enforcement and the public with the necessary information to recognize and respond to potential threats effectively. The emphasis on vigilance, information sharing, and community engagement underscores the collaborative approach required to counter the persistent threat posed by violent extremism and ensure public safety in the face of evolving tactics.