University of Alabama freshman killed in terror attack, officials say. ‘Heartbreaking’
.jpg "More than 10 people were killed, including a freshman at the University of Alabama, when officials said a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd in Louisiana on New Year’s Day.")
A freshman at the University of Alabama was among several killed in an attack on New Year’s Day when officials said a man barreled a pickup truck into a crowd of people celebrating in New Orleans.
Kareem Badawi began studying at UA in the fall and pledged to join the Sigma Chi fraternity, according to social media posts. He graduated from the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge in 2024, the school’s athletic booster club said in a statement. Social media posts show he played football while in school.
“I encourage you to hold these alumni, their families, and all who are grieving in your thoughts and prayers,” school officials said in the statement. “Episcopal is a small school where every student is known and loved, so we anticipate that current students, faculty and staff will also need time and space to process this tragedy.”
Badawi’s father shared a Facebook post grieving his son and asking for comfort from Allah. Several people commented in response to the tragedy.
“It is with such sadness to hear this news. Our deepest condolences to you and your family during this most difficult time,” one person said.
“My heart breaks for you and your family. So sorry for your loss,” another person commented.
Stuart Bell, UA president, shared a statement on social media.
“I grieve alongside family and friends of Kareem in their heartbreaking loss,” he said in the statement.
Several people commented on the Instagram post of the statement, showing their support for Badawi.
“He was a great guy and fun to be around. Gonna miss you lots Kareem,” one person said.
What to know about the attack
More than 10 people were killed and dozens were injured when a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd at about 3 a.m. Jan. 1 in New Orleans, the FBI said in a news release.
The man, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar from Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene after authorities said he fired on local law enforcement.
Investigators later found an Islamic State flag, weapons and a potential explosive device the truck, according to the FBI.
The FBI found videos Jabbar, a U.S. veteran, posted on social media indicating he was “inspired by ISIS,” President Joe Biden said in a news conference shared by The White House on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The attack is being investigated as an act of terror, Biden said in a news release.
“We will support the people of New Orleans as we begin the hard work of healing,” he said.
This story was originally published January 2, 2025 at 12:19 PM with the headline "University of Alabama freshman killed in terror attack, officials say. ‘Heartbreaking’."
