Missouri man indicted over explosive videos used by New Orleans attacker

A Missouri man whose online videos were allegedly used by the New Orleans attacker to make explosive devices has been indicted on federal charges related to manufacturing explosives and distributing instructions for making them, according to federal prosecutors.

Jordan Derrick, 40, of Sweet Springs, Missouri, has been charged by a federal grand jury with four counts, including engaging in the business of manufacturing explosive materials without a license and distributing information about how to manufacture explosives.

The indictment follows a criminal complaint filed earlier this month. According to an affidavit filed with the original complaint, Derrick had been using several social media sites since no later than September 18, 2023, to post videos of himself making explosive materials.

Prosecutors said the videos included step-by-step instructions for making explosives and were available on Derrick’s publicly accessible video-sharing accounts.

The videos were downloaded and used by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who carried out the January 1, 2025, terrorist attack in New Orleans, according to prosecutors. Jabbar created IEDs consistent with Derrick’s instructional videos, but the devices did not detonate and were later rendered safe by law enforcement.

The case also has a possible connection to an explosion on May 4 at a private residence in Odessa, Missouri, east of Kansas City.

Investigators who searched the home after the explosion found two components suspected of being used in explosive devices. The occupant told investigators that he made explosive devices after watching online tutorials on a social media account believed to be used by Derrick.

Prosecutors said the investigation into the Odessa explosion is ongoing.

Derrick is charged with engaging in the business of manufacturing explosive materials without a license, unlawful possession of unregistered destructive devices, unlawful possession of components that can readily be converted into destructive devices, and distributing information related to manufacturing explosives.

If convicted, Derrick faces up to 10 years in prison on each of the manufacturing and possession counts, and up to 20 years in prison on the distribution count.