Tragedy struck New Orleans on New Year’s Day when a U.S. Army veteran, reportedly flying an ISIS flag on his truck, drove into a crowd celebrating in the French Quarter. The attack left 15 people dead and 30 injured. While officials have not released all the victims' names, families and friends have identified some of them, sharing poignant details about their lives.
Here’s what we know so far about the victims:
Nicole Perez (28)
- Nicole Perez was a hardworking mother and dedicated deli employee.
- Recently promoted, she was looking forward to moving into a new apartment with her 4-year-old son, whom she was teaching to read.
- Her boss, Kimberly Usher, described her as a loving mom who often brought her son to work and played spelling games with him.
- "She was about to start a new life," Usher said. "And now that's no more."
Tiger Bech (27)
- Tiger Bech was from Lafayette, Louisiana, and a graduate of Princeton University, where he played football.
- Known for his athleticism and intellect, his former high school principal, Marty Cannon, called him "an impressive guy" with "tremendous depth."
- Tiger worked in finance in New York but was in New Orleans to celebrate the holidays with loved ones.
Nikyra Cheyenne Dedeaux (18)
- Nikyra, an aspiring nurse from Mississippi, was set to begin a nursing program at Blue Cliff College later this month.
- She had traveled to New Orleans to ring in the New Year with family and friends.
- Her mother, Melissa Dedeaux, shared her grief in a Facebook post, urging others to heed their parents' advice to stay safe. "My baby is gone," she wrote.
Reggie Hunter (37)
- Reggie Hunter, a father of two from Baton Rouge, worked as a warehouse manager.
- He took pride in his children’s academic achievements and enjoyed staying fit with friends and family.
- A cousin, Shirell Jackson, shared memories of his warmth and dedication to his family.
Final Thoughts
This senseless attack has shaken the New Orleans community, robbing it of promising young lives and devoted family members. As the investigation continues, families are mourning their loved ones and grappling with unimaginable loss. Each of these individuals leaves behind a story of love, ambition, and connection that will be remembered by those who knew them.