NEW YORK —A graduate of Princeton University who worked in New York City one of more than a dozen people who died in the deadly attack in New Orleans early Wednesday morning.
The New Orleans coroner confirms that at least 15 people have died, police say a driver deliberately struck a crowd of pedestrians celebrating New Year’s Eve in the city’s French Quarter.
Former All-Ivy Princeton football player killed in attack in New Orleans
The victims included 28-year-old Martin “Tiger” Bech, his mother confirmed to CBS News.
Bech was on the Princeton football team and wore the No. 7 jersey. The All-Ivy League kick returner played for the Tigers from 2016 to 2018.
In a statement, Bech’s former coach Bob Surace wrote: “There was no more appropriate nickname for a Princeton player I coached. He was a ‘Tiger’ in every sense – a fierce competitor with endless energy, a beloved teammate and a caring friend. Our last conversation was about how proud I was of the growth he showed during his time at Princeton and the success he had after graduation. My love goes out to the entire Bech family.”
After graduating from Princeton in 2021, Bech went to work as a junior bond trader in cybersecurity at Seaport Global in New York City.
In a post on social media, Bech’s younger brother Jack wrote: “I love you always brother! You inspired me every day now you can be with me any moment. I got this family T, don’t worry. This is for us .”
Bech was born in Louisiana. A prayer service was held for him Wednesday evening in the chapel of St. Thomas More Catholic High School in Lafayette.
Another Princeton graduate and former football player, Ryan Quigley, was injured in the attack. He is currently in hospital, CBS News Philadelphia reports this.