Former NFL star Antonio Brown has initiated a fundraiser aiming to raise $100,000 for the families of the victims who lost their lives in the devastating New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans.
“This has nothing to do with me and everything to do with helping the families who lost their loved ones in New Orleans,” Brown stated on the fundraiser’s webpage. “I will work with GoFundMe to ensure every dollar raised is split between the 15 families who lost their loved ones on January 1st. Prayers.”
Early Response to the Fundraiser
The fundraiser had garnered nearly $3,000 in donations from about 80 contributors as of Thursday morning, including a $500 contribution. It is unclear whether Brown himself has made a donation, as he did not respond to media inquiries for clarification.
Although Brown filed for bankruptcy in May, he has publicly maintained that he continues to enjoy a wealthy lifestyle. For those concerned about the legitimacy of donations, GoFundMe has added a “donation protected” label to the page, promising a full refund in the rare case of issues.
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The Tragic Attack
The New Year’s Day tragedy unfolded in the early hours of the morning when 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar deliberately drove his vehicle into a crowd of revelers in New Orleans’ French Quarter. The attack, which also included a firefight with police, resulted in 15 fatalities and more than 30 injuries. Jabbar was killed at the scene.
Investigators reported finding an ISIS flag in Jabbar’s vehicle, and the FBI is treating the incident as a terrorist attack. Authorities also discovered weapons and improvised explosives at the crash site, although the explosives did not detonate.
Among the 15 victims were individuals from all walks of life, including former college athletes, a young mother, and high school students. Those identified include Tiger Bech, 28; Ni’kyra Cheyenne Dedeaux, 18; Reggie Hunter, 37; Nicole Perez, 27; Kareem Badawi; Matthew Tenedorio; and Hubert Gauthreaux, 21.
Impact on Local Events
The attack also disrupted major events in New Orleans, including the College Football Playoff quarterfinal game at the Sugar Bowl. Originally scheduled for Wednesday night at the Superdome, the game was postponed to Thursday afternoon for safety reasons.
“Public safety is paramount,” Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley said during a press briefing with officials including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. Hundley emphasized that the postponement was necessary to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
The decision created challenges for traveling fans, with many unable to reschedule their plans to stay for the rescheduled game. Ticket prices on resale platforms plummeted, with some being listed for as little as $25.
A Community in Mourning
Despite the challenges and heartbreak, the response from New Orleans residents and visitors has been one of resilience and solidarity. Antonio Brown’s initiative to raise funds for the victims’ families is just one of many efforts to support those affected by the tragedy.
As the city mourns and begins the process of healing, local and national leaders, alongside community figures like Brown, are working to ensure that victims and their families receive the care and resources they need during this difficult time.
