LaTasha Polk dies in fatal Bourbon Street attack
Fatal Bourbon Street attack death of LaTasha Polk – Obituary
LaTasha Polk, a 47-year-old resident of New Orleans’ Treme neighborhood, has been identified as the final victim among 14 people killed in a devastating New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street. Described by her family as a dedicated nurse’s assistant and a loving mother to her 14-year-old son, Polk was celebrating the holiday with her brother, Printisis Polk, who remains missing.
The horrifying incident unfolded when a Texas man, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove a truck loaded with improvised explosives down nearly three blocks of Bourbon Street, striking dozens of people. He was killed in a shootout with police on Wednesday.
At a vigil held in honor of the victims, Polk’s relatives, including her aunt Kim Polk and brother Raynell Bates, expressed their sorrow while reflecting on her life. Despite the immense grief, Kim Polk noted that LaTasha would have wanted the city to continue its spirit of joy and resilience.
The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office is expected to formally confirm Polk’s identity soon. Meanwhile, her family is continuing the search for her brother Printisis by visiting local hospitals.
Calling for respect during this difficult time, Bates urged people to stop sharing graphic videos of the attack, which have caused distress to their grieving mother. He described LaTasha as a compassionate and caring person who had always looked after him growing up. “She wouldn’t want us to be sad,” he said, though he lamented not staying in closer contact with her.
The attack has left the community in shock, but vigils have become a place for healing, remembrance, and hope as New Orleans mourns its tragic loss.
