Former Princeton football player Martin ‘Tiger’ Bech was among the 15 killed in a terror attack early Wednesday morning when a 42-year-old man plowed a truck into pedestrians celebrating the New Year in New Orleans’ French Quarter.
Bech, 27, died in the hospital shortly after the attack unfolded. Law enforcement identified the suspect as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen who had lived in Texas and died after a shootout with police. Investigators said that Jabbar had an ISIS flag in his vehicle and posted social media videos indicating he was inspired by the Islamic terror group.
While authorities have not revealed the victims, family members have come forward to mourn their loved ones.
“Love you always brother! You inspired me everyday now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family T, don’t worry. This is for us,” Bech’s younger brother Jack wrote on social media.
Bech played wide receiver for the Princeton Tigers from 2016 to 2018. He had 53 receptions for 825 yards and three touchdowns, earned honors as a kick returner, and won two Ivy League championships.
“There was no more appropriate nickname of a Princeton player I coached,” Princeton Coach Bob Surace said. “He was a ‘Tiger’ in every way – a ferocious competitor with endless energy, a beloved teammate and a caring friend. Our last conversation was about how proud I was of the growth he showed during his time at Princeton and the success he was having after graduation. My love goes to the entire Bech family.”
Another victim was identified as Kareem Badawi, a student at the University of Alabama.
“I learned today that Kareem Badawi, one of our students at The University of Alabama, was killed in the terrorist attack in New Orleans,” University President Stuart Bell said. “I grieve alongside family and friends of Kareem in their heartbreaking loss.”
Nikyra Dedeaux, an 18-year-old from Mississippi who wanted to become a nurse, was also killed, according to her mother.
“I just want to see my baby,” Melissa Dedeaux told local Louisiana news outlets. “She was the sweetest person. She would give you anything, anything.”
Other victims included 37-year-old Reggie Hunter of Baton Rouge, Nicole Perez, and 21-year-old Hubert Gauthreaux.
New Orleans Coroner Dwight McKenna said Wednesday that the full list of victims would be released once autopsies were completed and every family was notified.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded in the French Quarter,” he said. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected.”
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