Lives Lost: Remembering the Victims of the New Orleans Attack
A young mother teaching her son to read. A former college football player thriving in New York City. An 18-year-old aspiring nurse. A father of two known as the "life of the party."
Families and friends are mourning the 15 individuals tragically killed in the New Year's Day truck-ramming attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, allegedly drove a pickup truck through barricades with the intent to cause mass casualties, according to New Orleans Superintendent of Police Anne Kirkpatrick.
Here are the stories of some of the victims whose lives were cut short:
Kareem Badawi
Kareem Badawi, a recent graduate of the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, was attending the University of Alabama. The school and university mourned his loss, describing him as a bright young man with a promising future.
Tiger Bech, 27
Tiger Bech, a former Princeton University football player, was remembered as a vibrant soul who "lived life to the fullest." He worked in New York City but was visiting Louisiana for a hunting and fishing trip with college friends. His family described him as a beloved brother and friend.
Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux, 18
Nikyra, an aspiring nurse, was described by her mother as outgoing, kind, and deeply loved. Despite her mother’s pleas to avoid Bourbon Street on New Year's Eve, she went out with friends and tragically lost her life.
Hubert Gauthreaux, 21
A graduate of Archbishop Shaw High School, Hubert was remembered by his school as a bright and promising young man. His senseless death has left his community heartbroken.
Reggie Hunter, 37
Reggie Hunter, a father of two, was known as the "life of the party" with a big heart and an infectious sense of humor. His cousin described him as a loving and caring individual whose loss has devastated his family.
Nicole Perez, 27
Nicole Perez, a young mother, was helping her 4-year-old son learn to read. Her employer described her as a dedicated worker and loving mother who had recently been promoted and was excited about her future.
Matthew Tenedorio, 25
Matthew, a fiber optics and video professional, was cherished for his warmth, humor, and energy. His parents recalled their final dinner with him on New Year's Eve, a memory now filled with both love and heartbreak.
The New Orleans community, alongside the nation, continues to grieve for the lives lost in this senseless act of violence. These individuals leave behind grieving families, cherished memories, and unfulfilled dreams.