New Orleans has been shaken by a tragic event as Martin “Tiger” Bech, a former college-prep football player, was among the 14 people who lost their lives in a recent terrorist attack. Bech, 27, was a notable athlete at the Loomis-Chafee School in Windsor and later played for Princeton University.
Bech was originally from Louisiana and had traveled back to New Orleans to celebrate the holidays. According to his sister, he was walking back to his hotel with a friend when the attack occurred. Bech’s friend sustained injuries and was among the many who were hurt during the incident; he is currently recovering in the hospital.
The Loomis Chaffee School released a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow over Bech’s passing. “The Loomis Chaffee School is mourning the loss of Martin ‘Tiger’ Bech, a post-graduate student in the class of 2016. Tiger was a cherished member of our community and is remembered fondly by his classmates, coaches, faculty, and staff. We are thinking of his loved ones and extend our sympathy,” the school wrote.
At Princeton, Bob Surace, the head football coach, shared his memories of Bech, describing him as a beloved teammate. He said, “[Tiger was] a tiger in every way, a ferocious competitor with endless energy, a beloved teammate, and a caring friend.”
The New Orleans community, along with sports fans who admired Bech, are reflecting on his life and the impact he had on those around him. This tragedy is a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of community support in times of grief.
