Kareem Badawi, Tiger Bech Obituary and Death, Nikyra Dedeaux, Hubert Gauthreaux, Reggie Hunter, Nicole Perez, Matthew Tenedorio Obituary and Death: Lives Lost in Devastating Bourbon Street Attack That Claimed Seven Souls and Shattered Families Across Louisiana
The bustling streets of Bourbon Street, synonymous with joy and celebration, turned into a scene of unspeakable tragedy on Wednesday. Seven lives were senselessly cut short, leaving families mourning and communities reeling in the aftermath of a violent attack in Baton Rouge. Each victim carried with them a story of promise, dedication, and love.
Among the victims was Kareem Badawi, a freshman at the University of Alabama who had just begun to embrace the exciting opportunities of collegiate life. A 2024 graduate of the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, Kareem was eager to make his mark, having pledged to join the Sigma Chi fraternity. Known for his radiant optimism and intellectual curiosity, Kareem’s untimely passing has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and the university community.
Tiger Bech, 27, a former Princeton University football player and a rising star in the finance world, was another soul taken in the attack. Tiger had graduated in 2021 with a degree in finance and was working as a trader at a New York brokerage firm. Visiting New Orleans for the holidays, Tiger was remembered for his determination, athletic prowess, and unyielding commitment to his goals.
Nikyra Dedeaux, 18, was on the cusp of fulfilling her dream of becoming a nurse, following in the footsteps of her mother. A Gulfport, Mississippi, native, Nikyra was set to begin a nursing program at Blue Cliff College on January 13. Known for her kindness and strong work ethic, Nikyra’s ambitions were tragically cut short, leaving her family and community grieving for a future lost.
The life of Hubert Gauthreaux, 21, also ended far too soon. A graduate of Archbishop Shaw High School in 2021, Hubert was described as a young man with a bright future and a kind heart. His high school community issued a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow and highlighting the positive impact Hubert had on everyone around him.
Reggie Hunter, 37, a dedicated warehouse manager and a devoted father of two from Baton Rouge, was another victim of the senseless violence. Reggie’s life revolved around his children and his work, embodying the values of perseverance and family. His loss has left his loved ones devastated, grappling with the irreplaceable absence of a caring father and friend.
The tragedy also claimed Nicole Perez, 27, who had recently achieved a significant milestone in her career, earning a promotion to manager at Kimmy’s Deli at Lakeway in Metairie. Nicole’s joy in teaching her four-year-old son to read and do math underscored her dedication as a mother. She was preparing to move into a new apartment, full of hope and excitement for the future.
Finally, Matthew Tenedorio, 25, an audiovisual technician for the Superdome, lost his life in the attack. Matthew’s work brought him pride and joy as he contributed to the events that brought people together in New Orleans. His energy and creativity were a source of inspiration for his colleagues and friends.
The devastating loss of these seven lives has sent ripples of grief across the state and beyond. Families, friends, and communities are mourning the vibrant individuals taken from them, each with dreams and aspirations cruelly interrupted. The attack has left a city known for its resilience grappling with sorrow, as the investigation continues to uncover the motives behind this horrific act.
In their memory, vigils have been held, tributes shared, and calls for justice amplified. Each victim’s story is a reminder of the profound impact one life can have on so many others. As Louisiana mourns the seven lives lost in this tragedy, the legacies of Kareem, Tiger, Nikyra, Hubert, Reggie, Nicole, and Matthew will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.
