Hubert Gauthreaux, 21, was one of 15 people killed in a New Year’s Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans
The family of Hubert Gauthreaux, a 21-year-old victim of the New Orleans terror attack, has revealed his poignant final words. “Happy New Year. I love you,” Hubert texted his sister, Brooke, just three hours before he tragically lost his life.
Hubert, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, had traveled to the French Quarter to ring in the new year. The celebration turned tragic when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old US Army veteran from Texas, drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street, killing 15 and injuring dozens more.
The attack, which occurred on January 1, was later classified as an act of terrorism after investigators discovered a black ISIS flag affixed to the truck’s rear bumper. The assailant, who died in a shootout with police, had also posted videos on social media expressing admiration for ISIS and a desire to kill, according to FBI reports.
A family in mourning
On January 4, Hubert’s family visited the site of the attack to honor his memory. His sister Brooke described him as a young man who “loved deeply, gave generously, and brought joy to everyone who knew him.” Speaking on behalf of the family, she shared, “The memory of his love and kindness will remain in our hearts forever. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.”
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Brooke shared more about their bond and her grief. “My sweet, selfless baby brother deserved so much better than this,” she wrote. “Nothing feels real anymore. Part of me is just expecting you to walk through the door with that slick little grin and give me a hug. I miss you so much already.”
Hubert’s name now graces a mural near the site of the tragedy, a permanent tribute to a life cut short.
Details of the attack
The rented electric Ford pickup truck used in the attack was driven around barricades and onto the sidewalk of Bourbon Street, with authorities stating that the assailant “was trying to run over as many people as he could.”
President Joe Biden addressed the nation on the day of the attack, condemning the violence and expressing solidarity with the victims’ families.
This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of terrorism on individuals and communities.