NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt

First major storm of 2025 set to impact about 60 million Americans; New Orleans attacker said in video message to family he had joined ISIS; Memorial services for Jimmy Carter begin in Georgia ahead of state funeral; and more on tonight’s broadcast.

Police uncover messages from the suspect that may show a motive in the Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion as his ex-girlfriend shares new video with NBC News, federal authorities warn of potential copycat attacks after the deadly New Orleans attack, a massive snowstorm set to hit the U.S., and more in tonight’s broadcast.

Before Nicholas Sparks became the best-selling author of more than 20 books on the New York Times best sellers list, he was a college track star. And after an injury, his mom encouraged him to “do something,” so he wrote a novel he now calls “terrible.” Years later he was pharmaceutical salesman with a family, and decided to write “The Notebook” in his off hours. We all know what a hit that was! It launched his career. But even with the success of his books he says, “I think I can do better.” In a conversation with NBC News’ Kate Snow, Sparks reflects on his childhood, his writing process, and his latest book “Counting Miracles.”

Suspect in deadly New Orleans attack likely acted alone, FBI says; Suspect in Las Vegas bombing had apparent self-inflicted gunshot, police said; Families remember victims of New Orleans terror attack; and more on tonight’s broadcast.