Last updated: 1:30 p.m.
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Three victims of the New Orleans attack — in which a U.S. Army veteran drove into a crowd of New Year’s revelers in the French Quarter, killing 15 people — had ties to the greater Philadelphia region.
Martin “Tiger” Bech and Ryan Quigley were on Bourbon Street when the horrific attack happened early New Year’s Day. Bech, a 28-year-old Louisiana native, was one of the 15 people who were killed.
Quigley, who is from Lansdale, Montgomery County, was injured and hospitalized.
Bech attended high school in Louisiana and became an All-Ivy kick returner at Princeton from 2016 to 2018.
“He was a ‘Tiger’ in every way — a ferocious competitor with endless energy, a beloved teammate, and a caring friend,” Princeton head football coach Bob Surace said in a statement. “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.”
Quigley survived the attack and is being treated for his injuries. He was a running back at Princeton and graduated in 2020.
His roots are in Lansdale. He graduated from Lansdale Catholic High School in 2016.
“We are incredibly proud to count Ryan among our graduates, and we are inspired by the ways in which his LC classmates are coming together to support his family during this difficult time,” the high school said in a statement.
Two of those classmates started a GoFundMe for Bech’s family and Quigley’s recovery. They raised nearly $80,000 but paused the fundraiser as they wait to learn more from the families about their needs.
Another victim killed in the attack was Billy DiMaio. The 25-year-old lived in Holmdel, Monmouth County, New Jersey and was a graduate of Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, where he was a standout lacrosse player.
DiMaio was a New York-based account executive for Audacy, the parent company of KYW Newsradio.
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Billy DiMaio,” an Audacy spokesperson said in a statement. “Beyond his professional achievements, Billy will be fondly remembered for his unwavering work ethic, positive attitude, and kindness. He was a true asset to the Audacy team, and his contributions and presence will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Billy's family and friends during this exceedingly difficult time.”