Nikyra, just 18 years old, dreamed of becoming a nurse. She cared for her family with a maturity well beyond her years. Reggie, a father of two, had just finished his shift and was looking forward to ringing in the New Year with his cousin. Then there was Tiger, a former college football standout who had recently embarked on a career in finance. Among the 15 lives tragically cut short in the New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, each one tells a story of ambition, sacrifice, and love now lost.
Nikyra had only just begun to shape her future. Already working at a hospital, she was preparing to attend college to pursue her nursing career. “She was the one who took care of everyone, even though she was the youngest,” said Zion Parsons, a friend who was with her that night, speaking to the Associated Press.
Parsons recalled the horrifying moment of impact. “The truck came like a bullet, throwing people into the air,” he said. “I saw Nikyra fly dozens of feet. It was like a movie, but it was real—and terrifying.”
Reggie, 37, was a devoted father and family man. That night, he had decided to meet a cousin to celebrate the New Year, but fate had other plans. “He was a generous man, always there for his kids,” said Shirell Jackson, a cousin, who added that the cousin with him that night was also injured.
Tiger Bech, 27, had made his mark both on the football field and in the financial world. A former player at Princeton, where he graduated in 2021, Tiger had recently moved to New York to work as a trader. “He was full of energy, someone who never gave up,” said Bob Surace, his former coach. Tiger’s younger brother, Jack, a rising football star himself, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media: “I’ll carry you with me forever. This is for us.”
Nicole Perez, in her early twenties, was a single mother working tirelessly to create a better future for her 4-year-old son. Recently promoted to manager at a deli in Metairie, she often brought her son to work with her. “She was an incredible mother, always eager to learn,” said Kimberly Usher, the deli’s owner, who has started a crowdfunding campaign to support Nicole’s son as he faces life without her.
Among the victims identified by police was Huber Gauthreaux, 21, whose death was confirmed in a statement by Archbishop Shaw High School in Marrero, Louisiana, where he graduated in 2021. Kareem Badawi, who had just begun his studies at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, was also among those who lost their lives.
Matthew Tenedorio, 25, worked in fiber optics and video production at the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center, New Orleans’ premier indoor arena. His family last saw him at dinner on New Year’s Eve before he headed out with friends to Bourbon Street. His parents had urged him not to stay out too late that night.
In a final message sent by his mother, she wrote: “I love you. Happy New Year. Please text me when you get home.” That message would never be read.
