Tiger Bech's cause of death: What happened to former Princeton football player?

Former Princeton Tigers WR Martin "Tiger" Bech was among the victims of a tragic attack in New Orleans on New Year's Day 2025. Bech was struck by a pickup truck driven by 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter.

The wide receiver suffered internal injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he was placed on life support until his family arrived. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries later that morning.

Bech, a native of Lafayette, Louisiana, played for Princeton University from 2016 to 2018. He earned All-Ivy League honors as a kick returner and recorded 53 receptions for 825 yards and three touchdowns during his collegiate career.

After graduating in 2021 with a finance degree, Tiger Bech pursued a career as a stockbroker in New York City. He was in New Orleans to celebrate the holidays with his family when the attack occurred.

The assailant, Jabbar, was killed in a shootout with police after crashing into a crane. The FBI discovered several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at the scene, indicating the possibility of accomplices. The Sugar Bowl, scheduled for that day at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, was postponed to Thursday due to the incident.

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Jack Bech, Tiger Bech's brother, wrote a heartfelt message on X

TCU Horned Frogs WR Jack Bech in action during an NCAA football game. (Credits: IMAGN)

Tiger Bech's younger brother, Jack Bech, a wide receiver at Texas Christian University, expressed his grief on social media.

“Love you always brother! You inspired me everyday now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family T, don’t worry. This is for us❤️”

Princeton Tigers coach Bob Surace dropped some kind words, reflecting on Bech's nickname "Tiger."

"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," Surace said.

"Our last conversation was about how proud I was of the growth he showed during his time at Princeton and the success he was having after graduation. My love goes to the entire Bech family," he added.

The college football was left shocked and sorrowful after this tragic news.