Crime
37-year-old Reggie Hunter killed in New Orleans car-ramming attack
Reggie Hunter, a 37-year-old father of two from Baton Rouge, was among the 10 victims tragically killed in the suspected terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Family members remembered him as a devoted father, a hardworking professional, and a cherished member of his community.
Hunter had just finished his work shift when he decided, on a whim, to head to New Orleans with his cousin to celebrate the new year and anticipate the Sugar Bowl.
“He came in from work and said, ‘Hey, the Sugar Bowl is tomorrow. It’s New Year’s Eve. Let’s go to the city,’” recalled his first cousin, Shirell Jackson. “It was just something so simpleโโHey, cuz, wanna ride me to the city?โโ
The celebration turned to horror when a truck, driven at high speed, plowed into the crowd on Bourbon Street around 3:15 a.m.
Hunter was struck and succumbed to his injuries, Jackson confirmed. His cousin, who was also hit, is among the 35 injured survivors and is currently hospitalized with severe internal injuries.
Hunter, born in California, spent most of his life in Baton Rouge and Independence, Louisiana. For the past six years, he worked as a warehouse manager, a role he approached with diligence and pride.
As a member of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, Hunter had been looking forward to attending their ball, a highlight of his social calendar.
He was also deeply proud of his family, especially his 12-year-old son, whose achievements in the STEM field filled him with pride, and his 18-month-old son, the joy of his life.
Hunterโs family described him as a blend of charm and determination, a “pretty boy” who enjoyed staying active and spending time with loved ones. “He wanted to be in the gym with his homeboys and cousins,” Jackson said. “And heโd say, โIโm getting swole.โ Iโd tease him, saying, โWhere? Youโre so little.โโ
The family has faced tragedy before; Hunterโs mother was murdered in 2016. Jackson shared that this latest loss has reopened old wounds. “Itโs hard,” she said. “Itโs bringing back a lot.”
Hunterโs legacy is one of love, laughter, and resilience. His family and friends will remember him not only for his strength and ambition but also for his unwavering dedication to his children, his passion for fitness, and his zest for life.
As the community mourns, officials continue to investigate the attack that claimed his life, along with the lives of nine others. The family is holding onto cherished memories as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Crime
Celeste Gusman, 66, Dies After Stabbing at Kalihi Business in Honolulu; Police Investigate as Homicide
HONOLULU, Hawaii โ A 66-year-old woman has died following a stabbing at a business in Honoluluโs Kalihi neighborhood, leaving her family, friends, and the local community grieving a tragic loss.
The victim was identified as Celeste Gusman, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Officers responded to a business in the 2300 block of North School Street at approximately 3:20 p.m. Wednesday after receiving a report of a stabbing.
When officers arrived, they found Gusman suffering from a stab wound. Emergency medical personnel quickly began providing advanced lifesaving treatment at the scene before transporting her to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, Gusman later succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities also reported that another woman, who is in her 60s, sustained minor injuries during the incident. According to the information released, she was injured in a fall amid the disturbance and was transported to a hospital in stable condition.
No further details about the circumstances surrounding the second womanโs injuries have been provided.
Following the incident, police initially arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of second-degree attempted murder. After Gusman died from her injuries, authorities reclassified the case as a murder investigation.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the stabbing. Police have not yet released information about what may have triggered the incident or whether the suspect knew Gusman.
The suspect’s arrest and the ongoing investigation do not establish guilt. Further details are expected as authorities continue gathering evidence and determining the events that led to the fatal attack.
The death of Celeste Gusman at 66 has brought sadness to those affected by this incident. A place of business in a familiar neighborhood became the scene of a tragedy, and loved ones are now facing the difficult reality of losing someone important to them.
While many questions remain unanswered, the loss of life has deeply affected the community. Friends, relatives, and neighbors are left remembering Gusman and hoping that the investigation will bring clarity about what happened.
Please keep Celeste Gusmanโs family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time. The injured woman and everyone affected by the incident also deserve support as they recover.
May Celeste Gusman rest in peace. May her loved ones find comfort, strength, and healing in the days ahead.