DC police tighten security in 'abundance of caution' for major events after New Orleans attack

WASHINGTON ? Security tightened across the nation's capital after Wednesday's vehicular attack in New Orleans, which killed 10 people and injured at least 35, but there is no known threat to the city, authorities said.

The Metropolitan Police Department heightened its security posture across the city "out of an abundance caution" after the New Orleans attack, although there is no known threat to the city, according to Paris Lewbel, deputy director of communications for the department.

"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 investigating the New Orleans incident as "an act of terrorism" and continues to search for other suspects, after the driver was shot and killed by local police. The attack came the same day as the Sugar Bowl, a college football matchup between Notre Dame and the University of Georgia, was scheduled. The game was postponed a day.

Several high-profile events that could attract large crowds are scheduled in Washington in the coming weeks. Congress reconvenes on Friday, lawmakers will count Electoral College votes on Monday, the late President Jimmy Carter will lie in state at the Capitol from Tuesday to Thursday and President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated on Jan. 20.

“We have already been ramping up security, as planned, ahead of a busy month at the U.S. Capitol," the U.S. Capitol Police said in a statement.

Signs of tighter security for upcoming were already obvious with the installation of chain-link fencing around the Capitol. Fencing has routinely been placed around the historic building since a riot Jan. 6, 2021, led to a temporary halt in Congress counting Electoral College votes. Security fencing is also traditionally erected for 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."

The suspect in the New Orleans attack has been preliminarily identified by the FBI as Shamsud Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen and Army veteran who lived in Texas. Authorities found several improvised explosive devices in his truck and in the French Quarter neighborhood of the city, and were continuing to search for more suspects in the attack.

“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.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: DC police tighten security out of 'caution' after New Orleans attack