Crime
Victims killed in New Orleans Bourbon Street car-ramming attack identified
Bourbon Street as crowds gathered in New Orleans to celebrate New Year’s Eve and the Sugar Bowl.
Among the victims were a father of two from Baton Rouge, a former football player from Lafayette, a young mother from Metairie, and an 18-year-old nursing student who had come to the city with friends to ring in the new year.
The attacker, identified by the FBI as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove a pickup truck from Canal Street onto Bourbon Street at approximately 3:15 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
According to authorities, the vehicle displayed an ISIS flag, and weapons and a suspected improvised explosive device were discovered inside.
Federal officials are investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism.
Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux
Eighteen-year-old Nikyra “Cheyenne” Dedeaux of Gulfport, Mississippi, had plans to start a nursing program at Blue Cliff College on January 13. Known affectionately as “Biscuit” among friends, she was described as a “little ball of sunshine” who lifted the spirits of everyone around her.
Cheyenne traveled to New Orleans with her cousin and a friend to celebrate the new year. Tragically, she was struck and killed by the vehicle during the attack.
Her grieving mother, Melissa Dedeaux, recalled her as a loving, selfless individual who had a knack for bringing people together. “She was the sweetest person. She would give you anything,” her mother said.
Reggie Hunter
Reggie Hunter, 37, was a dedicated father of two from Baton Rouge and a respected member of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club. A warehouse manager by trade, Hunter decided to visit Bourbon Street on a whim after finishing work.
He was struck and fatally injured by the vehicle, leaving behind a 12-year-old son excelling in STEM and an 18-month-old toddler.
Family members described Hunter as a positive, energetic person who enjoyed working out and spending time with his family. His cousin, Shirell Jackson, said, “You pray for a prosperous year, and then you get this devastating news.”
Tiger Bech
Twenty-seven-year-old Tiger Bech, a Lafayette native and former football standout, succumbed to catastrophic injuries from the attack.
A graduate of Princeton University, where he played football, Bech had built a career as a trader in New York City. He was in New Orleans for the holidays when he was struck by the vehicle.
Bech, known for his athletic excellence, was kept on life support until his family could arrive. He is survived by his younger brother, Jack Bech, a former LSU football player, and numerous grieving loved ones.
Nicole Perez
Nicole Perez, 28, had just been promoted to manager at Kimmy’s Deli in Metairie and was planning a fresh start with her four-year-old son.
Known for her dedication and work ethic, Perez walked to work every morning to provide a better future for her child.
Her boss, Kimberly Usher, praised her resilience and commitment, saying, “She was a good mom and wanted to be successful.” Perez’s son is now in the care of close friends and family.
Hubert Gauthreaux, 21
The fifth victim identified in the attack is 21-year-old Hubert Gauthreaux, whose family had initially reported him missing. Family members later confirmed his death on social media after hours of searching. Hubert was found at a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
“Our hearts are shattered,” a relative wrote online, reflecting the deep grief felt by his loved ones.
Matthew Tenedorio, 25
The sixth victim has been identified as 25-year-old Matthew Tenedorio, an audiovisual technician who worked at the iconic Superdome. Matthew was tragically shot and killed during the incident.
“His loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his family and friends,” said his cousin in a heartfelt tribute. His coworkers and friends remember him as a dedicated professional with a kind spirit.
Kareem Badawi, 18
The seventh victim is 18-year-old Kareem Badawi, a freshman at the University of Alabama. Kareem had recently graduated from the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, where he was described as a bright and promising young man with a future full of potential.
Officials from the Episcopal School expressed their condolences, calling Kareem’s death a tragic loss for their school community and the world at large.
An Auburn University graduate was among the victims of the tragic New Year’s Day terror attack in New Orleans, university president Christopher Roberts confirmed on Thursday.
Drew Dauphin, a native of Montgomery, Alabama, was one of at least 14 people killed in the attack early Wednesday morning. A 2016 graduate of Alabama Christian Academy (ACA), Dauphin was remembered fondly by his former school community.
“The ACA family mourns with the Dauphin family in the loss of their son, Drew, a beloved part of the ACA community and a graduate of 2016,” said ACA Head of School Josh Roberts. “Drew is remembered as a friend, leader, and key part of ACA’s baseball and football programs. Our hearts are heavy as we share in the grief of this loss with the Dauphin family and Drew’s many friends and classmates.”
Dauphin went on to attend Auburn University, where he graduated in 2023.
Auburn University President Christopher B. Roberts expressed profound sorrow on behalf of the university community. “Words cannot convey the sorrow the Auburn Family feels for Drew’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time,” Roberts said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the Dauphin family and the families of all the victims of this senseless tragedy.”
The university shared a formal message from President Roberts:
“On behalf of Auburn University, I send my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of 2023 graduate Drew Dauphin, who was taken from us in the New Orleans terror attack. Words cannot convey the sorrow the Auburn Family feels for Drew’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. Our thoughts are with the Dauphin family and the families of all the victims of this senseless tragedy.”
This devastating loss has sent waves of grief through both the ACA and Auburn communities, as they remember Drew for his leadership, kindness, and the many lives he touched.
Billy DiMaio, a 25-year-old from New Jersey who grew up on Long Island, has been identified as the ninth victim in the devastating New Year’s Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
DiMaio was an accomplished account executive for Audacy, a leading media company based in New York. His career, marked by dedication and professionalism, left a lasting impact on his colleagues and clients alike.
In the wake of his tragic death, Audacy issued a heartfelt statement expressing their profound sorrow:
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Billy DiMaio, a New York-based Account Executive, in the terrorist attack in New Orleans. Beyond his professional achievements, Billy will be fondly remembered for his unwavering work ethic, positive attitude, and kindness. He was a true asset to the Audacy team, and his contributions and presence will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Billy’s family and friends during this exceedingly difficult time, and we extend our deepest sympathies to them and every member of the Audacy family who had the privilege of working with him.”
DiMaio’s loss has sent shockwaves through both his professional and personal circles. Known for his dedication, kindness, and positive demeanor, he was admired by all who knew him.
As his family, friends, and colleagues mourn this tragic loss, they remember Billy not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the genuine warmth and energy he brought to every interaction.
His untimely death is a poignant reminder of the senselessness of violence and its far-reaching impact on individuals, families, and communities.
A New Orleans family has confirmed the tragic loss of their loved one, Terrence “Terry” Kennedy, who was killed in the terror attack on Bourbon Street in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Kennedy, 63, was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, known for his generous spirit and kind nature.
His family described him as a man with an “extremely big heart” who touched the lives of everyone around him with his warmth and kindness.
Terry was the seventh of nine children born to Dolores and James Kennedy, growing up in a close-knit family that remains deeply connected.
His sister fondly recalled his love for sports, particularly his unwavering devotion to his favorite teams. Kennedy was a passionate supporter of the New Orleans Saints and the Kansas City Chiefs, but his loyalty always shone brightest for the Pittsburgh Steelers, his all-time favorite team.
Family members have confirmed that 40-year-old Elliot Wilkinson is among the victims of the devastating terror attack that occurred on New Year’s Day along Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
Elliot’s brother, Cecil Wilkinson of Lafayette, expressed his grief and heartbreak in a heartfelt post on Facebook.
“I know life was hard for you at times,” Cecil wrote. “I wasn’t expecting to get the phone call.”
The Wilkinson family is grappling with the sudden loss of their loved one as they join the broader community in mourning the lives lost during the attack.
Brandon Taylor, a 43-year-old cook from Terrytown with a passion for rap music, was one of the 14 people tragically killed in the Bourbon Street terror attack early Wednesday morning.
Known for his quiet demeanor and deep love for music, Taylor was engaged to 38-year-old Heather Genusa, who was by his side during the horrific event.
The couple had been enjoying a night out in the French Quarter, spending time in a Bourbon Street club before the attack occurred. According to Genusa, Taylor stepped outside and was standing near a boom lift parked in the 300 block of Bourbon Street when a speeding pickup truck crashed into him.
Edward Pettifer, a 31-year-old tourist from London, has been identified as the 12th victim of the tragic terror attack on Bourbon Street that claimed the lives of 14 people and injured several others.
Pettifer, who was visiting New Orleans on holiday, was among those killed when a pickup truck plowed through a crowded street in the French Quarter early Wednesday morning.
In a statement released by his family, Pettifer was remembered as a kind-hearted and cherished individual.
“He was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, and a friend to so many,” the family said. “Edward was deeply loved, and his loss is an unimaginable tragedy for everyone who knew him.”
Authorities have identified the final victim of the New Orleans terror attack as LaTasha Polk, a 47-year-old nursing assistant and mother of a teenage son.
LaTasha Polk was described by family members as a dedicated and hard-working nursing assistant who was deeply committed to her 14-year-old son. Family members attending a vigil in her memory shared that Polk lost her life during the tragic attack on Bourbon Street.
While the Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office has not yet officially confirmed her identity, family members have publicly honored her, placing a photograph at a makeshift memorial in the French Quarter.
Community Mourns Loss
As more victims are identified, the New Orleans community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the devastating attack, which claimed the lives of 15 people and injured dozens more. Families, friends, and communities are mourning the loss of these individuals whose lives were cut short.
Authorities continue their investigation, working to piece together the events of the attack and to support the grieving families. Further details on the victims and their stories are expected to emerge in the coming days.
A University of Georgia student remains in critical condition, and two Israeli citizens were among the injured, according to statements from their respective institutions and governments.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack and the suspect’s potential affiliations with terrorist organizations. This tragedy has cast a somber shadow over what should have been a joyous celebration, as families and communities come to terms with their loss.
GARY, IN – Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred late Tuesday night, leaving one man dead and two individuals injured.
According to the Gary Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 2100 block of Delaware Street at approximately 10:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a possible gunshot victim.
Upon arrival, officers discovered multiple victims inside the residence.
A 22-year-old woman from East Chicago was found suffering from a gunshot wound.
She was provided immediate medical assistance at the scene before being transported to a local hospital for further treatment.
Inside the home, officers located a 26-year-old male victim from Gary in the kitchen.
He was unresponsive and had sustained a fatal gunshot wound. Emergency responders pronounced him deceased at the scene.
Additionally, a 31-year-old man from Chicago was found to have sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
Authorities confirmed that he was transported to Methodist Northlake Hospital by a private party prior to law enforcement’s arrival. His current condition remains undisclosed.
At this time, no suspects are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. The Gary Police Department urges anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. Individuals can contact detectives at (219) 755-3855.
Authorities are working diligently to gather further details and urge community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to the case.