The Princeton community and beyond are mourning the tragic loss of Tiger Bech ’21, who died early Wednesday morning at the age of 28 after sustaining injuries in a vehicle attack in New Orleans. Bech, a standout wide receiver and punt returner for the Princeton football team, was a native of Lafayette, La., and a 2021 graduate of Princeton University with an A.B. in Sociology.
The attack occurred during New Year’s celebrations when a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd, killing at least 10 people and injuring dozens more. The FBI has since confirmed it is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism.
A Legacy on the Field
Tiger Bech was a star on the Princeton football team, earning second-team All-Ivy League honors as a return specialist for two consecutive seasons. In 2018, he played a pivotal role in Princeton achieving the highest-scoring offense in Ivy League history and an undefeated season for the first time since 1964. Over his career, Bech caught 53 passes for 825 yards and was celebrated as a ferocious competitor and beloved teammate.
Princeton Football Head Coach Bob Surace ’90 paid tribute to Bech, saying:
“There was no more appropriate nickname of a Princeton player I coached. He was a ‘Tiger’ in every way — a ferocious competitor with endless energy, a beloved teammate, and a caring friend. My love goes to the entire Bech family.”
Surace also praised Bech’s dedication to mentoring younger players even after his graduation.
“There were two or three times we had career nights, and you could call him with a day’s notice, and he came down and shared his experiences as a young professional with our team,” Surace told ESPN.
Life Beyond Princeton
After graduating, Bech moved to New York City, where he embarked on a promising career. He worked as a sales representative at LiveAction for two years before transitioning to a role as a trader at Seaport Global Holdings LLC. Friends and colleagues remember him as a hard-working professional with the same determination and energy he brought to the football field.
A Devoted Brother and Son
Bech’s younger brother, Jack Bech, a wide receiver for Texas Christian University, expressed his grief and admiration for Tiger in a heartfelt post on social media:
“Love you always brother! You inspired me every day; now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family T, don’t worry. This is for us.”
Tiger’s commitment to his family, his teammates, and his community was evident in every aspect of his life.
A Life Cut Tragically Short
The senseless attack that claimed Tiger’s life has left the Princeton community, his family, and friends devastated. His competitive spirit, generosity, and dedication to excellence made him a role model both on and off the field.
As the investigation into the attack continues, the focus remains on honoring Tiger’s memory and the indelible impact he left behind. His loss is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones.
Rest in peace, Tiger Bech. Your light, energy, and spirit will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing you.
The post Remembering Tiger Bech ’21: Former Princeton Athlete and Rising Professional Tragically Killed in New Orleans Terror Attack first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
