Three victims have been identified among the 15 people killed when a car drove into a crowd in New Orleans during New Year’s Eve celebrations. Reggie Hunter, 37, was heading to his cousin’s home after work when the incident occurred. Nikyra Dedeaux, 18, was visiting from Gulfport, Mississippi, and was studying to be a nurse. Tiger Bech, 27, was a stockbroker who had recently graduated from Princeton. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed by police after opening fire on officers. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism.
Reggie Hunter, a father of two, was known for his love of fashion and working out. Nikyra Dedeaux, who was set to begin a nursing program at Blue Cliff College, was described as a positive person who was always cheerful. Tiger Bech, a former All-Ivy League kick returner, was working as a stockbroker in New York. The suspect, Jabbar, had a history of criminal charges and was staying at an Airbnb that burned down shortly before the attacks. An ISIS flag was found in the vehicle, along with weapons and a potential IED.
The attack occurred in the French Quarter, one of New Orleans’ busiest areas, during the city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. The suspect, driving a Ford pickup truck, intentionally tried to run over as many people as possible. An ISIS flag, weapons, and potential IEDs were found in the vehicle, leading the FBI to investigate the incident as an act of terrorism. Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI’s New Orleans Bureau.
Friends and family of the victims have expressed shock and grief over the tragic incident. Nikyra Dedeaux’s friend, Zion Parsons, described the chaos and devastation of the scene. Nikyra Dedeaux’s mother, Melissa Dedeaux, mourned the loss of her daughter, calling her the sweetest person who would give anything to others. Princeton football coach Bob Surace remembered Tiger Bech as a successful young professional with a promising career in the business world.
As the investigation continues, the FBI will lead the efforts to uncover any potential connections the suspect may have had to terrorist organizations. The public is asked to avoid certain areas of Bourbon Street until further notice. With 15 people dead and 30 injured in the attack, the community is left to mourn the loss of those who were senselessly killed during what should have been a joyous occasion.
