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
Jordan and Antoine Boykin: Two Brothers, 17 and 14, Fatally Shot in Gwinnett County, Georgia; Teen Suspect Charged
LAWRENCEVILLE, Georgia — A devastating shooting in Gwinnett County has claimed the lives of two teenage brothers, leaving their family, friends, classmates, and community facing an unimaginable loss.
The victims were identified as Jordan Boykin, 17, and Antoine Boykin, 14. Their deaths are being investigated as a double homicide, and 19-year-old Alexander Canela-Panchi has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting.
The brothers were found with gunshot wounds near the yard of their home on Heather Stone Way in Lawrenceville, according to the account provided. Their deaths have left their mother, Megan Boykin, and other family members mourning the loss of two young lives taken far too soon.
The shooting reportedly happened Wednesday night after neighbors heard multiple gunshots in the area of Heather Stone Way.
According to the information provided, Jordan and Antoine were discovered in the yard near their home with fatal gunshot wounds. Both teenagers were pronounced dead at the scene.
Their mother, Megan Boykin, was approximately 45 minutes away when she received a frightening call from her daughter, who reported hearing what sounded like around 10 gunshots.
Megan rushed home after learning about the incident, but by the time she arrived, both of her sons had died. The sudden loss of two children has left the family facing a devastating tragedy.
Investigators reportedly reviewed surveillance footage that showed a vehicle arriving in the area before the teenagers approached it. Gunfire followed shortly afterward.
According to police, Jordan and Antoine had arranged to meet Alexander Canela-Panchi to purchase vape cartridges. Authorities say an argument broke out during the alleged transaction before the brothers were shot.
However, the victims’ family has reportedly questioned that explanation and raised concerns about whether jealousy or a possible robbery may have played a role.
Those concerns have not been established as official findings. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain subject to the investigation and court proceedings.
Alexander Canela-Panchi, 19, has been charged in connection with the deaths of the two brothers.
According to the information provided, the charges include:
- Two counts of felony murder
- Two counts of aggravated assault
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony
- A narcotics-related offense
The charges represent allegations, and Canela-Panchi is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Jordan and Antoine were reportedly students at Collins Hill High School. News of their deaths has deeply affected the school community, including classmates, teachers, and others who knew the brothers.
The school district declined to comment, according to the supplied account. Nevertheless, the loss of two young students has left many in the community grieving.
At 17 and 14, Jordan and Antoine were still growing up, building friendships, and looking toward the future. Their lives ended before they had the opportunity to experience many of the milestones that lay ahead.
For Megan Boykin and the rest of the family, the loss is especially painful. Losing one child is an unimaginable heartbreak; losing two sons in the same incident leaves a family confronting a tragedy that words cannot fully express.
Jordan and Antoine were brothers who shared a family and a home. Their deaths have left behind memories, unanswered questions, and an absence that their loved ones will carry with them.
As the investigation and legal proceedings continue, thoughts remain with Megan Boykin, the brothers’ sister, their extended family, friends, and everyone affected by this tragedy.
May Jordan Boykin and Antoine Boykin rest in peace, and may their loved ones find strength and comfort during this heartbreaking time.