Bo Jackson Offers Heartfelt Message For New Orleans Victims
01/04/2025 07:15 PM
The country has been deeply saddened by the horrific attack on New Year's Day in New Orleans this week, as 14 people were killed when a driver intentionally rammed a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.
Dozens more were injured in the attack, shaking one of America's most notable cities and tourist destinations to its core. New Orleans is often a place where people go to have fun and vacation, and it was deeply affected by the terrible events this week.
As the days go by, more information is being revealed about the victims and their personal connections.
Former Auburn star and two-sport athlete Bo Jackson paid tribute to all of the victims, but added a special mention for two who happened to have ties to his home state of Alabama.
"My heart goes out to all of the victims of the New Orleans attack and to the brave police officers who were injured," Jackson said Saturday on X.
"My prayers go out to the families, especially the two young victims from Alabama— Drew Dauphin an Auburn graduate and University of Alabama student Kareem Badawi. May they rest in peace. Let's stay vigilant and support one another in these difficult times."
My heart goes out to all of the victims of the New Orleans attack and to the brave police officers who were injured. My prayers go out to the families, especially the two young victims from Alabama— Drew Dauphin an Auburn graduate and University of Alabama student Kareem Badawi.… pic.twitter.com/CBesU6rAR5
— Bo Jackson (@BoJackson) January 4, 2025
According to the New Orleans coroner's office, many of the victims of the attack were from local, surrounding areas. They ranged in age from 18 to 63, with Badawi being the youngest. Like Jackson, Dauphin was an Alabama native from the city of Montgomery.
Martin "Tiger" Bech, from Lafayette, Louisiana, was a former college football player during his time at Princeton. The 27-year-old had moved to New York City, and according to his coach, made multiple appearances to give advice to his former teammates.
"My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday," said President Joe Biden in response to the attack this week.
"There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation's communities."
Many members of the sports world have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families, including those with ties to the New Orleans area. Pelicans star Zion Williamson donated $100,000 to the Greater New Orleans Foundation's Tragedy fund, which will go toward helping victims and their loved ones.
"As a father, son and someone who loves the community, this hit me hard," he told ESPN.
"This isn't just about money —but standing together and making sure no one feels alone."
Our condolences continue to go out to everyone affected by these tragic events.
Related: Zion Williamson Announces Generous Donation Following New Orleans Terrorist Attack
