Crime
43-year-old Brandon Taylor killed in New Orleans terror attack
New Orleans, LA – 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.
“No one should ever have to die like that. He didn’t deserve it,” said Genusa, her voice filled with emotion.
Taylor’s 75-year-old mother, Mary Guerrera, described her son as a Christian man with a deep love for music and a kind heart.
“It’s been very difficult,” Guerrera said on Friday. “I’m pretty devastated, and I’m just trying to get through this.”
Taylor, born and raised in Marrero, was the youngest of Guerrera’s two sons and a graduate of John Ehret High School.
“He was my entire life,” said Genusa. “Brandon was my everything, and I lost it all.”
The night turned deadly just after 3:15 a.m. when the white pickup truck, driven by the suspected terrorist, sped into the crowded street. Genusa recalled narrowly dodging the truck herself, only to witness the unimaginable.
“The truck ran into the crane, and I’m pretty sure Brandon was right before the crane. He was the very last victim to be hit,” she said, her voice breaking.
When she reached Taylor, his body was draped over the front of the truck. His legs were broken, and he was struggling to breathe.
Genusa moved him to the ground and attempted rescue breathing, holding on to hope.
“I prayed over [Brandon], and I told him to never give up, to keep fighting the entire time,” she said.
Medical personnel arrived after what felt like an eternity, and Taylor was transported by ambulance. Genusa never saw him again.
Taylor’s passion for music was evident throughout his life. He enjoyed rapping and attending concerts, earning the nickname “Lazy” in his musical endeavors, according to Genusa.
O’Kieth Gibson, Taylor’s best friend since childhood, remembered him as a man deeply connected to music, whether he was performing or simply enjoying it.
Taylor’s death leaves a void in the lives of his family and friends, particularly Genusa, who described him as her world.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the attack, which claimed 14 lives and injured several others. The driver of the truck, who also shot and wounded two New Orleans police officers, was killed by law enforcement at the scene.
The loss of Brandon Taylor is a profound reminder of the tragedy that unfolded on Bourbon Street and its impact on the lives of so many. His family and loved ones are now left to mourn a life taken far too soon.
Crime
Wyoming Tragedy: 3 children killed, 1 fighting for life after Byron shooting
Sources confirmed woman shot and killed her children – All under age of 10
Byron, WY – Authorities are investigating a devastating shooting incident that occurred Monday afternoon in the small town of Byron, Wyoming, leaving multiple victims, both deceased and injured.
According to Big Horn County Sheriff Ken Blackburn, law enforcement responded to a 911 call at approximately 1:30 p.m. reporting gunfire at a residence on the south side of Byron.
Upon arrival, officers from the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and Lovell Police Department discovered multiple gunshot victims inside the home.
Some were found alive and in need of medical attention, while others were deceased.
Among those affected was Cliff Harshman, a devoted father and husband, who suffered the unimaginable loss of his three daughters, one still fighting for life.
Sources have confirmed that the suspect, Tranyelle Harshman, is believed to have fatally shot her children, all of whom were under the age of 10.
The sheriff’s office has not yet specified how many individuals perished or survived the attack.
Several victims were transported by ambulance to North Big Horn Hospital in Lovell for emergency treatment.
Their conditions remain unknown.
To assist with the investigation, Sheriff Blackburn has requested support from the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to process the scene.
Authorities have reassured the public that there is no active threat to the community at this time.
Sheriff Blackburn expressed gratitude to the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Lovell Police Department, local hospitals, and emergency responders for their swift response to the tragedy.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected by this devastating incident,” Sheriff Blackburn stated.
Byron is a small farming community located approximately 12 miles southwest of Lovell, Wyoming. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to be released as authorities continue their work.