The family of a young Auburn University graduate killed early Sunday morning in the terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans issued a statement following their heartbreaking loss through U.S. Senator Katie Britt’s office.
Drew Dauhpin, 26, a resident of Montgomery, was one of fifteen people who died after being struck by a pickup truck driven by a radical Islamist on New Year’s night.
“It’s unbelievable,” said the family. “Who should have to come up with words for this? Our family is suffering more than anyone can imagine. Drew lit up every room he entered. His smile was infectious. He had the best personality. We are such a tight family, dependent on each other, friends, family, and neighbors. We cherish the 26 years that we had with him and raising him will always be one of the greatest joys of our lives. Our family is numb and in shock through this horrific and senseless tragedy.”
“Drew was happiest at Lake Martin with his little brother Matthew. A close friend said it best. Drew will always now be in the sun at the lake that he loves so much. We did not get to spend enough time with him and can’t believe we will never see him again this side of heaven.”
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Sen. Britt said that Dauphin was “living his American dream” prior to his death.
“Drew Dauphin was a beloved son, brother, and friend, a talented student-athlete at Alabama Christian Academy, and a proud graduate of Auburn University. His parents were his role models. After speaking to his incredible mother, I know Drew was a light in the lives of all who knew him. Whether it was academics or wakeboarding with his brother, Matthew, he followed his passions with genuine zeal and unwavering dedication.”
According to his LinkedIn account, Dauphin obtained his bachelor’s degree in industrial and systems engineering from the college in 2023. Kareem Badawi, a student at the University of Alabama, was also killed in the attack.
Auburn University President Christopher Roberts called the loss of Dauphin and the other victims a “senseless tragedy” in a statement on social media.
“On behalf of Auburn University, I send my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of 2023 graduate Drew Dauphin, who was taken from us in the New Orleans terror attack,” Roberts said. “Words cannot convey the sorrow the Auburn family feels for Drew’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. Our thoughts are with the Dauphin family and the families of all the victims of this senseless tragedy.”
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
