Crime
28-year-old Tiger Bech killed in New Orleans car-ramming attack
Tiger Bech, a 27-year-old Lafayette native and former standout athlete from St. Thomas More Catholic High School, has tragically died as a result of injuries sustained during the presumed terrorist attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day.
Bech, who was struck by the suspect’s vehicle, suffered catastrophic internal injuries.
He was transported to a New Orleans hospital and placed on life support until his family could arrive.
He succumbed to his injuries late Wednesday morning, as confirmed by Kim Broussard, the athletic director at St. Thomas More.
Bech was a versatile and accomplished athlete during his high school years. As a member of St. Thomas More’s football team, he excelled in multiple positions, including wide receiver, quarterback, punt returner, and defensive back.
His senior year accolades included all-state honors, as well as being named to the All-Acadiana Regional and All-District First Teams. His impressive performance saw him amass 1,646 total yards and 19 touchdowns, showcasing his skill and dedication to the sport.
Bech continued his football career at Princeton University, where he played as a wide receiver.
Over three seasons, he recorded 53 catches for 825 yards and three touchdowns. In 2021, Bech graduated from Princeton with a degree in finance and pursued a career as a trader at a brokerage firm in New York.
Tiger Bech was the older brother of Jack Bech, a former wide receiver for LSU and TCU. Jack shared a heartfelt tribute to his brother on social media, expressing the profound loss felt by their family.
“Tiger was not just an athlete but also an incredible brother, son, and friend,” said Broussard. “He had a profound impact on everyone he met, both on and off the field.”
Bech was in New Orleans celebrating the holiday season when the attack occurred. The incident, which claimed the lives of 10 people and injured at least 35 others, has been labeled a likely act of terrorism by authorities.
St. Thomas More High School released a statement mourning the loss of their alumnus, stating, “Tiger was a beacon of excellence and a beloved member of our community. His legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.”
From his record-breaking athletic achievements to his academic and professional success, Tiger Bech’s life was marked by determination, talent, and a deep connection to his family and community. His untimely death has left a void that will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate to know him.
As investigations into the attack continue, friends and family are rallying to honor Bech’s memory and the incredible impact he had during his 27 years.
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.