Crime
Nicky Jones, Survivor of New Orleans Bourbon Street Terror Attack Seeks Support for Life-Saving Surgery
Nicky Jones, a victim of the recent terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, has been identified as one of the survivors grappling with severe injuries sustained during the devastating incident.
According to a GoFundMe campaign launched by her sister, Neil, Jones suffered catastrophic injuries when struck by a vehicle during the attack.
“My sister Nicky Jones was tragically caught up in the devastating incident in New Orleans,” Neil shared. “She was struck by a vehicle, which has crushed her hips. She is one of the lucky ones who survived, and my heart goes out to all the victims.”
Jones’ injuries are life-altering, and doctors have determined that the only path to mobility is a complete hip replacement surgery, estimated to cost approximately $40,000.
“Doctors have said the only option for her to be able to walk again is a complete hip replacement,” Neil explained.
Despite pooling resources from friends and family, Jones’ loved ones have managed to gather just $5,000—a fraction of the amount required.
Jones, who worked as a carpenter, is also a devoted mother of two young children, including a newborn. Her sister emphasized the emotional and financial strain her injuries have placed on her family.
“Nicky has recently become a mom again, so she has two beautiful children. We are doing everything we can, but we need help to ensure she can get the care she needs and return to her family.”
Neil humbly appealed to the community for assistance, acknowledging her inexperience with such efforts but emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
“This sort of stuff is new to me, so please forgive me if I’ve gone about this the wrong way,” she wrote. “Anyone who can help would be absolutely amazing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims from yesterday.”
Supporters can help fund Jones’ surgery and recovery through the GoFundMe campaign.
This heartbreaking incident has left survivors like Jones with immense physical and emotional challenges. Any contribution can make a significant difference in helping her regain mobility and rebuild her life.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) is investigating a series of shootings that occurred Wednesday night in Pahokee, culminating in a deputy-involved shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division are conducting parallel and joint reviews of the incident.
According to authorities, the violence began on Wednesday, February 25, at approximately 10:12 p.m., when 44-year-old Charles McCloud Jr. allegedly initiated a series of shootings at multiple locations throughout Pahokee over a roughly 40-minute span.
First Shooting – 171 Booker Place (10:12 p.m.)
McCloud allegedly shot two adult males at a residence located at 171 Booker Place.
Both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Second Shooting – 8700 Block of Doveland Drive
Shortly afterward, multiple gunshots were reported in the 8700 block of Doveland Drive.
Although several rounds were fired, authorities confirmed that no individuals were struck during this incident.
Third Shooting – 750 Belle Glade Road
The third shooting occurred at a convenience store located at 750 Belle Glade Road.
An adult male was shot during this incident and transported for medical treatment. Officials report the victim is expected to survive.
While responding to the reported gunfire on Doveland Drive and conducting a preliminary investigation, a PBSO deputy was securing the area with crime scene tape when McCloud allegedly drove a black GMC SUV directly at the deputy.
Authorities state that McCloud struck the deputy with the vehicle, pushing him approximately 40 feet. After exiting the SUV armed with a firearm, McCloud allegedly attempted to shoot the injured deputy.
In response, the deputy discharged his service weapon, striking McCloud. A second PBSO deputy also discharged his firearm during the encounter. McCloud was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The injured deputy sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at St. Mary’s Medical Center.
According to PBSO, Charles McCloud Jr. had an extensive criminal history, including prior charges for Riot, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Narcotics Equipment/Possession, and Escape or Attempted Escape from a county facility.
In accordance with standard agency policy, the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
The FDLE, the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division continue to actively investigate all aspects of the shootings, including the deputy-involved use of force.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.