Former Princeton football player Martin ‘Tiger’ Bech was among the 15 killed in a terror attack early Wednesday morning when a 42-year-old man plowed a truck into pedestrians celebrating the New Year in New Orleans’ French Quarter.
Bech, 27, died in the hospital shortly after the attack unfolded. Law enforcement identified the suspect as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen who had lived in Texas and died after a shootout with police. Investigators said that Jabbar had an ISIS flag in his vehicle and posted social media videos indicating he was inspired by the Islamic terror group.
While authorities have not revealed the victims, family members have come forward to mourn their loved ones.
“Love you always brother! You inspired me everyday now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family T, don’t worry. This is for us,” Bech’s younger brother Jack wrote on social media.
Bech played wide receiver for the Princeton Tigers from 2016 to 2018. He had 53 receptions for 825 yards and three touchdowns, earned honors as a kick returner, and won two Ivy League championships.
“There was no more appropriate nickname of a Princeton player I coached,” Princeton Coach Bob Surace said. “He was a ‘Tiger’ in every way – a ferocious 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 was having after graduation. My love goes to the entire Bech family.”
