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.
Crime
Britany May Powell Found Dead in Wood County, Texas; Husband Weldon Ray Powell Arrested on Murder Charge
QUITMAN, Texas — A woman has been found dead in the Quitman area of Wood County, and her husband, Weldon Ray Powell, has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with her death, according to the Wood County Sheriff’s Office.
The victim was identified as Britany May Powell. Her death has left family members, friends, and others who knew her grieving as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the case.
According to the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched on November 4, 2026, to County Road 1226 in the Quitman area after receiving a call requesting a welfare check.
When deputies arrived to check on Britany Powell, they encountered circumstances that raised concerns about a possible criminal incident. During the investigation, authorities discovered her body and began looking into the circumstances of her death.
The Sheriff’s Office has not publicly released additional details about how she died or what investigators believe happened before deputies arrived.
As the investigation progressed, Britany’s husband, Weldon Ray Powell, was arrested and charged with murder in connection with her death.
The arrest represents a significant development in the case, but many questions remain unanswered. Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive, the specific circumstances surrounding the alleged killing, or whether additional charges may be considered.
The murder charge is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The Wood County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate Britany May Powell’s death. Officials have not released further information about the evidence gathered or the events that led to the discovery of her body.
As investigators work to establish a clearer account of what happened, the case remains a devastating loss for Britany’s loved ones.
Behind the headlines is a woman whose life mattered to the people who knew and loved her. Britany May Powell’s death has left family and friends facing a painful loss and difficult questions.
During this heartbreaking time, thoughts are with her family, friends, and everyone mourning her passing. May those closest to Britany find comfort, strength, and support as they navigate the days ahead.
May Britany May Powell rest in peace.