New Orleans Saints, NFL Donate $1 Million to Bourbon Street Attack Victims

New Orleans, LA – In the wake of the tragic Bourbon Street attack that claimed 14 lives on New Year’s Day, the New Orleans Saints and the NFL have announced a joint $1 million donation to support the victims and their families.

“Our community has experienced an unimaginable tragedy,” said Saints owner Gayle Benson in a statement. “As a league, we stand united against all forms of hatred.” The donation comprises $500,000 from Benson and the Saints, matched by the NFL Foundation. These funds will be distributed through the Greater New Orleans Foundation and United Way to local organizations directly assisting the victims and their families.

“The NFL is committed to standing with the resilient community of New Orleans during this difficult time,” stated NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. The attack occurred when a driver intentionally drove a pickup truck into a crowd of revelers, leaving 14 dead and dozens injured. The driver, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US citizen from Texas, was killed in a shootout with police. The FBI has labeled the incident an act of terrorism. An ISIS flag was found on the truck, and President Biden confirmed Jabbar had expressed support for ISIS online.

“This was an act of terrorism. It was premeditated, and an evil act,” said FBI counterterrorism official Christopher Raia. A vigil held Saturday evening on Bourbon Street turned into a celebration of life with the sounds of a brass band. Cathy Tenedorio, who lost her son Matthew, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will travel to New Orleans on Monday to grieve with the families and community members affected by the attack.

The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office released the names of 14 victims, including:
• Kareem Badawi, 23, of Baton Rouge, LA
• Martin Bech, 27, of New York City, NY
• Andrew Dauphin, 26, of Montgomery, AL
• Nikyra Dedeaux, 18, of Gulfport, MS
• William DiMaio, 25, of Holmdel, NJ
• Hubert Gauthreaux, 21, of Gretna, LA
• Terrence Kennedy, 63, of New Orleans, LA
• Reggie Hunter, 37, of Prairieville, LA
• Nicole Perez, 27, of Metairie, LA
• Brandon Taylor, 43, of Harvey, LA
• Matthew Tenedorio, 25, of Picayune, MS
• Elliot Wilkinson, 40, of Slidell, LA
• Edward Pettifer, 31, of London
• Latasha Polk, 45, of New Orlean