A terrorist attack in New Orleans on New Year’s resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals, including Elliot Wilkinson, who had recently been released from prison and was homeless. Despite his difficult circumstances, he had begun searching for an apartment and was excited to be back in one of his favorite cities. The attack occurred in the French Quarter, a popular area known for its bars, live music, and crowds. Many of the victims were young people in their teens and twenties.
Names of 12 of the 14 victims were released by the city, with the thirteenth being identified as a British citizen named Edward Pettifer. Families and friends mourned the loss of these victims, many of whom had promising futures. President Biden planned to visit New Orleans to meet with the victims’ families and others affected by the tragedy. Among the victims were individuals like Drew Dauphin, Hubert Gauthreaux, Matthew Tenedorio, Kareem Badawi, Ni’Kyra Cheyenne Dedeaux, Nicole Perez, Reggie Hunter, Kevin Curry, and Tiger Bech.
Some of the victims had deep connections to New Orleans, including Terrence Kennedy, who was a lifelong resident known for looking after his family. Brandon Taylor, a restaurant cook and rapper, was also killed in the attack. He had plans to move in with his fiancée next month. Additionally, William Dimaio from New Jersey was identified as one of the victims. Many of those injured in the attack were still hospitalized or dealing with the trauma of what they experienced.
Injuries ranged from broken bones, fractured ankles, and gunshot wounds. Alexis Scott-Windham, who was injured in the attack, expressed her desire to visit the memorial on Bourbon Street in the future. The tragic events left families and friends torn apart and grieving the loss of loved ones. Elliot Wilkinson’s brother, Cecil, spoke about the love they shared and the bond they had, expressing his regret that his daughter never got to meet Elliot.
The close-knit New Orleans community was devastated by the attack, with many locals finding solace in coming together to support one another. The city released the names of the victims while friends and families gathered at memorials to honor those who lost their lives. The impact of the attack on the survivors and their loved ones is profound, as they struggle to come to terms with the senseless violence that took place. President Biden’s visit to New Orleans aimed to offer support to those affected by the tragedy and honor the memories of those who lost their lives.
