Photo by: Bayou State Media Staff
In the early hours of January 1, 2025, our cherished city of New Orleans was struck by a devastating act of terror. A man drove a truck into the heart of the French Quarter, targeting innocent revelers on Bourbon Street. This senseless attack claimed the lives of 15 individuals, with many others left injured.
Among those we lost are:
Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux, an 18-year-old high school graduate from Mississippi, remembered for her vibrant spirit and aspirations for the future.
Kareem Badawi, an 18-year-old Palestinian-American man, whose family recalls his kindness and dedication to his community.
Tiger Bech, a former Princeton football star, known for his athletic prowess and commitment to excellence.
Hubert Gauthreaux, a dedicated nursing student, who was passionate about caring for others and making a difference.
Reggie Hunter, a loving father of two, whose devotion to his family was evident in all he did.
Nicole Perez, a 27-year-old mother from Metairie, Louisiana, cherished for her unwavering love for her 5-year-old son, Melo.
Matthew Tenedorio, a Superdome employee, respected for his dedication and service to the community.
In addition to these named victims, there are others whose identities have not yet been released. Our prayers and heartfelt condolences go out to their families and loved ones. Each victim was a cherished member of our community, and their loss is deeply felt.
In the face of such profound loss, our hearts are heavy. Yet, even in this darkness, we find hope in the resilience and unity that define us as a city, state and country.
New Orleans has endured countless challenges, but our spirit remains unbroken. Now, more than ever, we must come together, holding one another close and lifting each other up. This is a time to show the world what it means to be Louisiana Strong.
Let us honor the memories of those we've lost by:
Supporting One Another: Reach out to your neighbors, offer a helping hand, and lend a listening ear.
Rejecting Fear: We will not allow terror to dictate how we live.
Taking Action: Attend community vigils, support local businesses, and engage in efforts to promote understanding and resilience.
Contributing to Relief Efforts: Donate to funds established to support victims’ families and those affected.
For those looking to help, several organizations are accepting donations to aid the families of the victims and support the recovery of those injured. Every contribution, no matter how small, is a step toward healing.
As we move forward, let us remember that our strength is rooted in our unity. Together, we will ensure that love triumphs over hate and that the legacies of those we’ve lost inspire us to build a brighter future.
In the words of a community member, "We are New Orleans. We are resilient. We are Louisiana Strong."
If you would like to support the victims and families affected by the recent tragedy in New Orleans, there are several trusted organizations and funds accepting donations:
The Greater New Orleans Foundation's Tragedy Fund was created in partnership with the City of New Orleans to directly support victims and their families. This fund ensures that resources are distributed efficiently to those who need them most. Donations made to this fund will provide immediate and long-term assistance to individuals and families affected by the tragedy. Visit their official website at Greater New Orleans Foundation to contribute.
The National Compassion Fund is a well-established organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to victims of mass casualty crimes. They work closely with impacted communities to ensure all donations are distributed transparently and fairly. Contributions made through their platform go directly to the victims and their families. To learn more or donate, visit the National Compassion Fund.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up specifically for Nicole Perez, a 27-year-old mother and one of the victims of the tragedy. The campaign, organized by her manager, aims to cover her burial expenses and provide ongoing support for her 5-year-old son, Melo. Donations to this campaign will directly assist Nicole's family during this difficult time. You can find this campaign and donate by visiting GoFundMe.
As more funds and donation opportunities are established, we will continue to update the list to ensure every affected family and individual receives the support they need. Please check back frequently for the most up-to-date information.
In times of tragedy, our unity is our strength. By supporting these efforts, you’re helping the victims and their families navigate unimaginable loss while sending a message of hope, love, and resilience. Together, we can show the world what it truly means to be Louisiana Strong.