A devastating attack in New Orleans on New Year’s morning claimed the lives of 15 people and left 30 others injured, when a car driven by suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, plowed into a crowd celebrating in the French Quarter.
The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential terrorist act, with Jabbar allegedly inspired by ISIS.
Among the victims, 37-year-old Reggie Hunter, a warehouse manager and father of two, was remembered for his family bonds and love of fashion and fitness.
Eighteen-year-old Nikyra Dedeaux, a nursing student, had traveled to New Orleans for the celebration and was set to begin college in two weeks.
Tiger Bech, 27, a Princeton graduate and former football standout, was working in New York as a stockbroker when he was tragically killed. Nicole Perez, a single mother and deli manager, was also among the fatalities.
Jabbar was shot dead by police after the attack, and an ISIS flag, along with other weapons, was found in his vehicle. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the suspect’s possible ties to terrorist organizations.
As New Orleans grieves, the memories of the victims and the horror of the attack continue to unfold.
