Crime
Auburn University graduate Drew Dauphin killed in New Orleans terror attack
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.
Merced Police Department officers are actively investigating a shooting that occurred near Merino Park in North Merced on Tuesday afternoon.
At approximately 3:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area following multiple reports of gunfire in the vicinity of the park.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers located a gunshot victim near the intersection of Morning Dove Avenue and Sunrise Drive, just east of Merino Park.
First responders rendered aid at the scene before the victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The extent of the victim’s injuries has not yet been disclosed.
A short time later, officers detained an individual in the surrounding area.
At this time, it remains unclear whether the person taken into custody is the suspected shooter or otherwise involved in the incident.
Authorities have not released any additional details regarding a motive or the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Investigators remain on scene, canvassing the area and gathering evidence.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation.
The Merced Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
Further updates will be provided as more details become available.