The owner of a popular Washington bagel shop was shot and killed while vacationing in New Orleans with her husband and business partner, according to reports. The victim was 32 years old and she “died in my arms,” she said.
Jacob Carter, co-owner of the popular Tacoma eatery Howdy Bagels, was shot to death around 1:30 a.m. Friday near Bourbon Street and Kelelec Street in New Orleans' Marigny neighborhood. The News Tribune reported.
Police said the gunman shot Carter, who was lying on the ground with her husband, Daniel Blagovic, and then fled. No arrests have been made.
“He died in my arms,” Blagovicz, who was also Carter's business partner, told news outlets by phone Monday.
Howdy Bagels, which enjoyed a successful 2021 run as a farmers market operator and opened a store on South Tacoma Way in June, announced its tragic death on its website. instagram page.
“Those who knew Jake know that he was a man who exuded kindness, warmth, and genuine concern for everyone he met. Jake was the brightest figure in the lives of those he loved. “This loss is immeasurable to our community.”
The restaurant has temporarily closed to allow Blagovicz and his staff time to grieve.
“To support Daniel and the entire Howdy crew, we'd like you to consider supporting Howdy in two ways: First, look out for each other,” the announcement said. “Showing up to care for one another when we are grieving is a way to honor the love that Jacob poured into this world.
“Second, to give Danielle the space to grieve without worrying about running her business, please consider making a donation to help cover some of the store's expenses and employee wages during this difficult season. ” continues the store.
“Daniel and Jacob are continually amazed and grateful for the way this community has come together to support Howdy Bagels. We hope you continue to show up with your love and support during this difficult season. We know,” he added.
A GoFundMe page created to cover rent and operating costs has raised more than $217,000.
According to the News Tribune, Carter, a Texas native, and Blagovicz, a West Seattle native, started Howdy Bagels after being laid off from their jobs during the pandemic.
The name Howdy “evokes a sense of warmth, of bringing people together, of inviting people, and I think we're trying to foster a place that embraces everyone,” Carter said. Masu. told king 5 In July.
“Danielle and I both grew up in environments that weren't always the same for queer people in particular, so having a storefront that's welcoming to everyone is part of who we are and how that space should be.” I think it's a big part of what we believe it should be,'' he said.
“There's a lot of love that goes into each of these products,” Carter added.
Olympia Coffee, where Carter worked part-time, said it was “heartbroken” to learn of Carter's death.
“Words cannot express the shock and pain we are experiencing as a team at Olympia Coffee. Jake Carter was a dear friend to many in our community,” it said in a social media post. .
Anyone with information is asked to contact CrimeStoppers at (504) 822-1111 or police at (504) 658-5300.
