Crime
63-year-old Terrence Kennedy killed in New Orleans Bourbon Street terror attack
A New Orleans family has confirmed the tragic loss of their loved one, Terrence “Terry” Kennedy, who was killed in the terror attack on Bourbon Street in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Kennedy, 63, was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, known for his generous spirit and kind nature.
His family described him as a man with an “extremely big heart” who touched the lives of everyone around him with his warmth and kindness.
Terry was the seventh of nine children born to Dolores and James Kennedy, growing up in a close-knit family that remains deeply connected.
His sister fondly recalled his love for sports, particularly his unwavering devotion to his favorite teams. Kennedy was a passionate supporter of the New Orleans Saints and the Kansas City Chiefs, but his loyalty always shone brightest for the Pittsburgh Steelers, his all-time favorite team.
Kennedy’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family and the New Orleans community. Those who knew him remember his kind demeanor and enduring love for his city and its vibrant culture.
The Kennedy family continues to grieve this unimaginable loss while honoring the memory of a beloved brother, uncle, and friend.
Their thoughts are with all the victims and families affected by this senseless tragedy.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the need for solidarity and compassion during such difficult times.
AUSTIN, Texas — A man was taken into custody Saturday afternoon following a shooting inside the Austin Central Library that left one person seriously injured and prompted a large emergency response and temporary shelter-in-place order in the downtown area.
According to the Austin Police Department (APD), officers responded shortly after 12:00 p.m. to reports of gunfire inside the Austin Central Library, located at 710 W. César Chávez Street.
Upon arrival, police and Austin-Travis County EMS units found one victim suffering from a gunshot wound.
The individual was transported to a local hospital in serious but stable condition.
Assistant Police Chief Lee Rogers stated during a press briefing that the shooter fled the scene before officers arrived.
After an extensive search, the suspect—identified as 55-year-old Harold Newton Keene—was located and arrested in South Austin at approximately 1:25 p.m.
The library was safely evacuated, and the shelter-in-place alert was lifted shortly after Keene’s apprehension.
Authorities emphasized that the shooting appeared to be an isolated incident involving only one suspect and one victim.
“This was not an active shooter situation,” Rogers confirmed.
Preliminary reports and public records reveal that Harold Newton Keene has a lengthy criminal history, including multiple arrests for assault, family violence, terroristic threats, burglary, drug possession, and evading arrest.
He is described by law enforcement officials as a habitual violent offender who has had numerous prior run-ins with police.
Records indicate Keene was previously arrested for threatening a man with a firearm several months ago and, in a separate incident, assaulted another inmate while in custody at the Travis County Jail.
In both cases, prosecutors later declined to pursue charges.
Authorities have not yet released a possible motive for the shooting or confirmed whether the suspect and victim knew each other.
The Austin Police Department’s Major Crimes Division is leading the investigation.
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Austin Police Department or Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS.