Crime
British Tourist 31-year-old Edward Pettifer Identified as 12th Victim of New Orleans Terror Attack
New Orleans, LA – 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.”
Described as adventurous and outgoing, Pettifer was in New Orleans exploring the vibrant culture of the city. His visit to Bourbon Street was part of a trip to celebrate the New Year, which tragically ended in one of the deadliest attacks in the city’s history.
While the investigation into the attack continues, family and friends mourn Pettifer’s untimely death, remembering the joy and warmth he brought to those around him.
The terror attack unfolded in the early hours of New Year’s Day, when a white pickup truck, driven by the suspected assailant, sped into a bustling crowd on Bourbon Street. Authorities later identified the driver as Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, who was killed by law enforcement at the scene after also injuring two police officers in a separate shooting incident.
Pettifer’s death highlights the far-reaching impact of the tragedy, touching lives across continents. His family, now grappling with their devastating loss, expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received during this difficult time.
Edward Pettifer will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and adventurous spirit. His loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.
Crime
Agent Nic Graham Dies After Being Shot in Lakewood Police Shootout With Suspect Gabriel Garcia on RTD Bus
LAKEWOOD, Colorado — A Lakewood police agent who was critically wounded during a shootout with a suspect aboard an RTD bus has died, authorities confirmed. The fallen officer was identified as Nic Graham, a member of the Lakewood Police Department since 2019.
Graham was among four police agents injured Thursday evening when an armed confrontation erupted near Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard. A civilian bystander was also struck by gunfire.
The shooting followed a police search for a suspect connected to a hit-and-run crash reported earlier in the day.
Police said the incident initially began shortly before 3:45 p.m. Thursday, following a hit-and-run collision near Kipling Street and West 13th Avenue in Lakewood.
Witnesses told investigators that the suspect ran away almost immediately after the crash. However, they provided officers with a description that helped police identify and search for the individual.
Lakewood Police Public Information Agent John Romero said witnesses were able to give officers a useful description of the person who fled the scene.
Several hours later, at approximately 6:30 p.m., a Lakewood police agent recognized the individual boarding an RTD bus near Colfax Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard.
Officers approached the suspect at approximately 6:32 p.m. Police said the individual opened fire on officers, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.
Responding officers returned fire, striking the suspect. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene and was identified as Gabriel Garcia.
Garcia was reportedly on parole when the shooting occurred.
The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain part of the ongoing investigation.
Four Lakewood police agents suffered gunshot wounds during the confrontation. Their injuries ranged from serious to critical, and all four were transported to nearby hospitals.
Despite receiving emergency medical treatment, Graham later died from his injuries.
One civilian bystander was also hit by gunfire and hospitalized. The person’s condition had not been publicly disclosed as of Friday afternoon.
Hospital updates released Friday morning indicated that two agents treated at Denver Health Medical Center had been released. Another remained hospitalized, while officials had not provided a complete update on the remaining injured individuals.
Graham began serving with the Lakewood Police Department in 2019 after graduating from the police academy.
Throughout his law enforcement career, he contributed to criminal investigations and earned recognition for his work.
One of his notable achievements came in 2023, when he received the department’s Special Investigations Unit Wingman Award for his contributions to investigations targeting gang members.
Police Chief Philip Smith paid tribute to Graham, highlighting his dedication, compassion and commitment to helping others.
Chief Smith said Graham demonstrated those qualities throughout his career, from his early days on patrol to his investigative work.
His death has left the department and the wider Lakewood community grieving the loss of an officer who dedicated his career to public service.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities examine the circumstances that led to the deadly confrontation.
The shooting resulted in the death of suspect Gabriel Garcia, the fatal injury of Agent Nic Graham, injuries to three additional police agents and a civilian bystander.
Officials have not released a final investigative account of the incident. Further updates are expected as investigators establish the complete sequence of events.