Tiger Bech, a former standout on the Princeton Tigers football team, was tragically killed in the New Orleans terrorist attack early Wednesday morning, his family confirmed. He was 28.
Bech, a celebrated all-conference kick returner during his time at Princeton, was visiting New Orleans for the holidays when a pickup truck drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street around 3:15 AM local time. The crash left at least 15 dead and dozens more injured.
Emergency responders rushed Bech to a nearby hospital, where he was kept on life support until his family arrived to say their goodbyes.
During his college career from 2017 to 2019, Bech made a name for himself as a dynamic receiver and kick returner, amassing three touchdowns, 53 catches, and 825 yards. After graduating, he transitioned into a successful career as a stockbroker in New York City.
His younger brother, Jack Bech, who played football at TCU and LSU, shared an emotional tribute on social media, writing, “Love you always brother! You inspired me every day, now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family, T. Don’t worry. This is for us ❤️.”
Princeton football coach Bob Surace also honored Bech’s memory, calling him “the utmost competitor” and reflecting on his energy and ability to shine in crucial moments. “He was full of life and made everyone around him better,” Surace told ESPN.
The driver of the truck, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was killed in a shootout with police at the scene. The FBI is now investigating the incident and searching for potential accomplices.
The attack has reverberated across New Orleans, leading to the postponement of the Sugar Bowl, which was scheduled for Wednesday at the Caesars Superdome.