Reggie Hunter, a 37-year-old father of two from Baton Rouge, was among the 10 victims tragically killed in the suspected terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

Family members remembered him as a devoted father, a hardworking professional, and a cherished member of his community.

Hunter had just finished his work shift when he decided, on a whim, to head to New Orleans with his cousin to celebrate the new year and anticipate the Sugar Bowl.

“He came in from work and said, ‘Hey, the Sugar Bowl is tomorrow. It’s New Year’s Eve. Let’s go to the city,'” recalled his first cousin, Shirell Jackson. “It was just something so simple—‘Hey, cuz, wanna ride me to the city?’”

The celebration turned to horror when a truck, driven at high speed, plowed into the crowd on Bourbon Street around 3:15 a.m.

Hunter was struck and succumbed to his injuries, Jackson confirmed. His cousin, who was also hit, is among the 35 injured survivors and is currently hospitalized with severe internal injuries.

Hunter, born in California, spent most of his life in Baton Rouge and Independence, Louisiana. For the past six years, he worked as a warehouse manager, a role he approached with diligence and pride.

As a member of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, Hunter had been looking forward to attending their ball, a highlight of his social calendar.

He was also deeply proud of his family, especially his 12-year-old son, whose achievements in the STEM field filled him with pride, and his 18-month-old son, the joy of his life.

Hunter’s family described him as a blend of charm and determination, a “pretty boy” who enjoyed staying active and spending time with loved ones. “He wanted to be in the gym with his homeboys and cousins,” Jackson said. “And he’d say, ‘I’m getting swole.’ I’d tease him, saying, ‘Where? You’re so little.’”

The family has faced tragedy before; Hunter’s mother was murdered in 2016. Jackson shared that this latest loss has reopened old wounds. “It’s hard,” she said. “It’s bringing back a lot.”

Hunter’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and resilience. His family and friends will remember him not only for his strength and ambition but also for his unwavering dedication to his children, his passion for fitness, and his zest for life.

As the community mourns, officials continue to investigate the attack that claimed his life, along with the lives of nine others. The family is holding onto cherished memories as they navigate this unimaginable loss.