A 25-year-old lacrosse star from Holmdel, New Jersey, described as having a “gentle-hearted soul,” has been identified as one of the 14 victims killed in the tragic New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans.
Billy DiMaio was in the city to celebrate New Year’s Eve and attend the Sugar Bowl college football game when his life was tragically cut short in the Bourbon Street massacre, his family confirmed to NOLA.com.
“He was a good, humble kid who loved life,” said his father, Bill DiMaio, reflecting on the devastating loss.
“He was a pure, gentle-hearted soul,” his mother, Tracie, added. “He will be truly missed.”
“Billy had a smile that could light up a room, and his laughter was truly infectious. His energetic personality inspired everyone around him,” his family shared in a heartfelt statement.
“He cared for others more than himself and, as the oldest brother to Samantha and Anthony, held a unique and irreplaceable role in their lives, as well as in the lives of his cousins and friends. He will be dearly missed.”
DiMaio, who worked for the media company Audacy in New York City, spent his early years on Long Island before his family moved to Holmdel, New Jersey. A “standout” lacrosse player, he made his mark at Holmdel High School and later at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy also honored DiMaio, saying, “Billy DiMaio was a 25-year-old account executive and a former standout lacrosse player at Holmdel High School whose life was cut short by a cowardly terrorist on New Year’s Day.”
