Jacob Carter, the beloved co-founder of Howdy Bagel, was reportedly found shot to death near Bourbon Street and Kerlerick Street in the Marigny neighborhood on Friday, January 5, 2024.
As previously reported, Jacob Carter, who co-founded Howdy Bagel in Tacoma with his wife, Danielle Blagojevich, was on vacation with his partner in New Orleans when he was found murdered early Friday morning.
At that time, the cause of death was not revealed. The New Orleans Police Department said Monday, Jan. 8, 2023, that the victim was found suffering from a gunshot wound around 1:32 a.m. Friday by responding officers at the intersection of Bourbon and Kerleric streets in the Marigny neighborhood.
Carter was reportedly pronounced dead at the scene.
Daniel Blagojevich, Jacob Carter's husband, was with him when he was shot
New Orleans Police are currently investigating the murder of Jacob Carter, co-owner of Howdy Bagel. While few details are available about the incident, the New Orleans Police Department said that an unknown suspect approached Jacob Carter before shooting him and fleeing the scene.
According to the News Tribune, Jacob Carter's husband, Daniel Blagojevich, was with him at the time of the accident. Blagojevich told the newspaper on Monday that her husband died in his arms.
Carter's death was first announced on Howdy Bagel's Instagram page. While they described the death as a “huge loss to the community”, they noted that the deceased was a very kind and warm person, and his death left a void in people's lives.
“If you knew Jake, you know that he was a person who radiated kindness, warmth, and genuine care for everyone he met. Jake was one of the brightest spots in the lives of everyone he loved. This loss is invaluable to our community.”
Carter, a Texas native, created the Howdy Bagel app with Blagojevich after they were both laid off during the pandemic. The quaint Bagel Shop began selling delicious baked bagels and sandwiches at the Tacoma Farmers Market in 2021. Within two years, the popular farmers market staple and pop-up shop was converted into an actual restaurant in 2023.
Howdy Bagel said on his Instagram page that the store will be temporarily closed while Blagojevich faces the devastating loss. The page also asked people to donate to a GoFundMe account to provide financial assistance to Blagovich as he deals with the difficult situation.
The fundraiser, organized by Stevie Hamill and Scout McLaughlin, said:
“This fundraiser will go to cover the cost of the store's rent and other operating expenses, as well as employee wages. Thank you so much for your support and generosity.”
The GoFundMe, which asked for $50,000, has surpassed its initial goal and raised more than $180,000. Following the overwhelming support, the fundraising page expressed its gratitude to community members.
“Thank you for this outpouring of love and support. Please feel free to keep sharing and donating, as more money raised means more time and space for our lovely Daniel and the Howdy team.
Police declined to release additional information, citing an active investigation.
