A tragic incident occurred in New Orleans, where a British man was confirmed as one of the victims in a truck attack that swept through Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day. Edward Pettifer, the stepson of a former nanny for the Royal Family, was acknowledged by Prince William, who expressed his deep sadness regarding the event. Among the 14 individuals who lost their lives, only one victim has not yet been identified, while the coroner’s office reported that all casualties resulted from blunt force trauma. They are currently working to determine the identity of a female victim. The alleged perpetrator, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed during a confrontation with law enforcement.
Among the victims was 31-year-old Edward Pettifer, whose family expressed heartbreak over his unexpected death, remembering him as a caring son, brother, and friend. The family extended their condolences to the other grieving families connected to this tragedy. The UK’s Foreign Office has been in touch with Pettifer’s family, offering support during this distressing time.
Another victim, Brandon Taylor, 43, from Harvey, Louisiana, also lost his life in this devastating incident. Similarly, Elliot Wilkinson, a 40-year-old from Slidell, Louisiana, was taken by the violence, prompting his brother to share heartfelt memories of him on social media.
Terrence “Terry” Kennedy, 63, a retiree from New Orleans, was enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Bourbon Street on the night of the incident. His niece reflected on his love for interacting with people and his gentle spirit, recounting the family’s painful search for him when he failed to respond after the attack.
Billy DiMaio, 25, was visiting New Orleans from New Jersey to celebrate the New Year. Described by his family as a gentle soul who cherished his family, DiMaio’s death has left them mourning his loss deeply. Hubert Gauthreaux, a 21-year-old from Gretna, Louisiana, was also identified among the victims by his high school.
Kareem Badawi, a 23-year-old freshman at the University of Alabama, died in the attack. His father recounted their anguish when they realized Kareem was among those affected. Andrew “Drew” Dauphin, just 26 and an Auburn University graduate, was also taken by this tragedy, prompting responses of sorrow from the university community.
Matthew Tenedorio, 25, from Picayune, Mississippi, was just beginning his career in audiovisual technician work when he became a victim. His mother recounted spending New Year’s Eve with him, a night they thoroughly enjoyed before his untimely death.
Reggie Hunter, a 37-year-old father from Baton Rouge, was out celebrating when the attack occurred, leaving his family devastated. Another victim, Tiger Bech, 27, had a notable football career and was remembered fondly by his former coaches.
Nicole Perez, a dedicated single mother and deli manager, was reported as one of the victims, eliciting heartbreak from her employer, who praised her commitment to her family.
Injuries from the attack also affected many others, with around 30 individuals hurt, half of whom remained in intensive care. Jeremi Sensky, a 51-year-old, underwent extensive surgery after being injured. His daughter shared their relief at his survival.
Among the injured were also Ryan Quigley, who sustained wounds alongside Tiger Bech, and various university students and international visitors, reflecting the widespread impact of the attack on victims’ families and communities.
As the community mourns the shocking loss of life, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has declared a period of mourning set to begin on January 6, emphasizing a united front against fear and violence in the face of this tragedy.
