A horrifying New Year’s Day tragedy unfolded on Bourbon Street in New Orleans when a white pickup truck plowed through crowds of holiday revelers, killing 15 people and injuring about 30 others. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabber, drove the truck into the crowd before being killed in a shootout with police. Among the victims were an aspiring nurse, a young single mother, a father of two, and a former Princeton football star, leaving their families and communities reeling.
Victims of the tragedy
Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux
Eighteen-year-old Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux had recently graduated high school and was enrolled in a nursing program at Blue Cliff College in Metairie. Known as “a little ball of sunshine,” Dedeaux tragically lost her life after celebrating New Year’s Eve on Bourbon Street with her cousin and friend, Zion Parsons, also 18.
“I didn’t even know she came over here,” her mother, Melissa, tearfully told NOLA.com. Dedeaux reportedly panicked and ran into the street when gunshots rang out, where she was struck by the vehicle. “I just want to see my baby,” Melissa wept, believing her daughter’s life was cut short.
Tiger Bech
Tiger Bech, a 28-year-old native of Lafayette, Louisiana, and former Princeton University wide receiver, was also among the victims. Known for his athleticism and dedication, Bech suffered catastrophic internal injuries and was kept on life support until his family could arrive.
“Love you always, brother,” his younger sibling, Jack Bech, a standout wide receiver for Texas Christian University, wrote on X. “You inspired me every day, and now you’ll be with me in every moment.” Tiger Bech graduated from Princeton in 2021 with a degree in finance and had been working as a trader at a New York brokerage firm.
Reggie Hunter
Reggie Hunter, a 37-year-old warehouse manager and father of two from Baton Rouge, had traveled to New Orleans to celebrate the New Year and watch the Sugar Bowl. Tragically, Hunter succumbed to his injuries, while his cousin remains hospitalized with severe internal injuries. “You are praying for a prosperous Year in 2025,” said his cousin Shirell Jackson, “and never do you think this is the news you are going to get.” Hunter left behind his two sons, aged 12 years and 18 months.
Nicole Perez
Nicole Perez, a 27-year-old mother from Metairie, was celebrating the holiday with friends when she was fatally struck. A dedicated mother to her 4-year-old son Melo, Perez had recently been promoted to manager at a local deli.
“Her son Melo is now without his momma, and we are without our friend and dedicated employee,” wrote Kimberly Usher-Fall, Perez’s employer, on a GoFundMe page.
Kareem Badawi
Kareem Badawi, a recent graduate of the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, also lost his life in the attack. The school mourned his passing and confirmed that another alumnus, Parker Vidrine, remains hospitalized in critical condition. “Our community is deeply saddened by this horrific attack,” the school’s statement read.
Hubert Gauthreaux
Hubert Gauthreaux, a 21-year-old graduate of Archbishop Shaw High School in Marrero, Louisiana, was initially reported missing before his family discovered him at United Medical Center. His former high school confirmed his tragic passing, calling for prayers for his grieving family.
Matthew Tenedoria
Matthew Tenedoria, a 25-year-old audiovisual technician at Caesars Superdome, was also among the victims. Known for his laid-back spirit and infectious laughter, Tenedoria’s family described him as a beloved son and friend who brought positivity wherever he went.
Impact on the community
The University of Georgia’s Sugar Bowl game against Notre Dame, scheduled to take place Wednesday night at the Superdome, has been postponed to Thursday out of respect for the victims and their families.
New Orleans Coroner Dr Dwight McKenna stated that the identities of the deceased would be released after autopsies are completed and next of kin are notified. As the community mourns the loss of these vibrant lives, family and friends continue to share stories of their loved ones, highlighting the depth of this tragedy.
