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Who was Kareem Badawi, student killed in New Orleans attack
Badawi was a freshman at the University of Alabama

Who was Kareem Badawi, student killed in New Orleans attack

Jan 04, 2025
01:40 pm

What's the story

Kareem Badawi, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Alabama, tragically lost his life in a terrorist attack on New Year's Eve in New Orleans. The incident also left Parker Vidrine, Badawi's former classmate, critically injured and currently admitted to the ICU. A graduate of Episcopal High School in Baton Rouge, Badawi was a respected figure among his peers and teachers.

Fond memories

Badawi remembered as kind, gentle by former coach

Badawi's former football coach, Travis Bourgeois, recalled him as "a very kind, gentle guy" who was "well-liked" by everyone. Badawi was a member of the Episcopal High School football team and shared a close bond with teammate Ethan Ott. Their friendship continued into college where they became roommates and pledged the Sigma Chi fraternity together. Both students had 4.0 GPAs during their first semester at the University of Alabama.

Unfortunate event

New Year's Eve celebration turns tragic for Badawi

On the fateful New Year's Eve, Badawi went to New Orleans with a few 2024 Episcopal graduates to celebrate and reunite. The group split up during the night. At around 3:16am Ott told Badawi he was going to Bourbon Street. Soon after this, Badawi's life was tragically cut short in the terrorist attack. His father, Belal Badawi, said his son hadn't expected or planned for such a tragic end to his celebration.

Lasting tribute

Friends honor Badawi with tattoos, memorial service

In memory of Badawi, Ott and other friends got tattoos reading "KB 1-1-2025." Ott said that this gesture meant: "Now I've got Kareem with me forever." The Episcopal School community also held a memorial service for Badawi. The chapel was filled beyond its capacity as attendees mourned the loss of an exceptional young man who had made a significant impact on those around him during his short life.