Will the FBI fire agent Alethea Duncan for downplaying the New Orleans attack?

On January 1, 2025, a significant incident occurred in New Orleans, Louisiana, when an individual drove a vehicle into a crowd on Bourbon Street, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. The attacker, later identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran, provoked chaos as he drove his truck through a crowd celebrating the New Year. Following the attack, FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alethea Duncan held a press conference, where she controversially asserted that the act was not connected to terrorism. This initial assessment was met with confusion, as the mayor of New Orleans promptly contradicted Duncan, declaring that the city had indeed experienced a terrorist attack. The FBI quickly rectified Duncan's statement, emphasizing that they were investigating the incident as a terror act and issued multiple statements to clarify their stance. It was revealed that Jabbar had an ISIS flag in his vehicle and was inspired by ISIS, although there was no evidence indicating that he had been directed by the group. The FBI has faced scrutiny for Duncan’s comments, especially after her quick retraction during subsequent press conferences where she acknowledged that the attack was under investigation as an act of terror. The agency's response has drawn criticism from various political figures and segments of the public who argue about the FBI’s operational capacity and focus. They claim that the agency's handling of the incident raises concerns about its ability to respond effectively to threats, pointing to a perceived prioritization of diversity initiatives over core investigative functions. As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits clarity on whether Duncan will face disciplinary action for her misleading proclamation. Without context, this controversy could compromise public trust in the FBI, further complicating the agency's already challenging relations with various communities. This situation emphasizes a pressing need for robust communication strategies during crises, particularly involving national security concerns.