Victims identified in deadly Bourbon Street attack

Key Takeaways:

• Fifteen fatalities, including the suspect, resulted from a mass attack on Bourbon Street during New Year’s celebrations.
• The suspect was identified by the FBI as 42-year-old Texas resident, Shamsud-Din Jabbar.
• At least 35 people were hospitalized following the attack.
• Victims included young adults and community members like 18-year-old Nikyra Dedeaux and 27-year-old Tiger Bech.
• Community institutions and families are responding with memorials, prayer services, and fundraising efforts.

A Night of Celebration Turns Tragic

New Orleans — What began as a joyful New Year’s Eve on the iconic Bourbon Street ended in devastating tragedy. A mass attack claimed the lives of 15 individuals, including the suspect, and left at least 35 others hospitalized.

Details of the Attack

The FBI identified the suspect as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar from Texas. Authorities are investigating the motives behind the horrific event that shattered the festive atmosphere in the heart of New Orleans.

The Victims

As the city grapples with the aftermath, the identities of several victims have been revealed, each story highlighting the profound loss felt by families and communities.

Nikyra “Cheyenne” Dedeaux, 18

Eighteen-year-old Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux from Gulfport had ventured to New Orleans with her cousin and friend to welcome the New Year. “She wasn’t supposed to be in New Orleans,” her mother told NOLA.com, noting that Cheyenne had snuck away with her 18-year-old cousin and friend Zion Parson . While the Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office has not officially confirmed her death, her mother is certain of the tragic news.

Tiger Bech, 27

Tiger Bech , a 27-year-old and 2015 graduate of St. Thomas More Catholic High School, was among those killed. Remembered as a standout athlete in football, lacrosse, and track and field, his alma mater released a heartfelt statement mourning his passing. Bech was the older brother of former LSU player Jack Bech . He was kept on life support until his family could arrive, according to NOLA.com.

Reggie Hunter, 37

At 37, Reggie Hunter was a father of two from Baton Rouge. Deciding “on a whim” to join his cousin for the New Year’s festivities on Bourbon Street, Hunter became one of the victims of the attack. His cousin survived but is among the hospitalized. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist his family with funeral expenses.

Nicole Perez, 28

Nicole Perez , a 28-year-old mother from Metairie, had recently been promoted to manager at Kimmy’s Deli at Lakeway. Described by her boss as a “good mom” who aspired for success, Perez leaves behind a four-year-old son now in the care of loved ones. A GoFundMe page, initiated by her manager Kimberly Usher , aims to cover funeral costs and support her child.

Matthew Tenedorio, 25

Twenty-five-year-old Matthew Tenedorio worked as an audiovisual technician for the Superdome. “He was the youngest out of his two siblings,” his family shared. A GoFundMe has been set up to help with funeral expenses, with his family expressing their grief over his untimely death in the “devastating terrorist attack in New Orleans.”

Community in Mourning

The impact of the tragedy has reverberated through educational institutions and community organizations.

• The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge reported the death of alumnus Kareem Badawi and the critical injury of Parker Vidrine , both from the class of 2024. A prayer service was scheduled at the Lewis Family Memorial Chapel.

“We are deeply saddened to share that… alumnus Parker Vidrine was critically injured and is hospitalized, and alumnus Kareem Bawadi tragically passed away as a result of the attack,” the school stated.

• Archbishop Shaw High School confirmed the passing of Hubert Gauthreaux , 21, a 2021 graduate. The school requested prayers for his family and friends during this difficult time.

“We are asking the entire Archbishop Shaw family to pray for the repose of Hubert’s soul… May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace,” the statement read.

Support and Solidarity

In response to the tragedy, GoFundMe launched a hub of verified fundraisers to support the victims’ families. Community members are rallying to offer assistance, with several campaigns established to cover funeral costs and provide aid to those left behind.

Seeking Healing Amid Loss

As investigations continue, the New Orleans community is uniting in grief and solidarity. The attack, occurring during a time meant for hope and new beginnings, has left an indelible mark on the city. Through prayer services, memorials, and support efforts, residents are coming together to honor the memories of those lost and to begin the healing process.

For information on how to support the victims’ families, please visit the GoFundMe hub of verified fundraisers.