State police identified the victims Wednesday as Broderick Moore, 19, of Cedar Hill, Texas; Tyran Williams, 19, of Dallas; and Dylan Young, 21, also of Dallas. The students were headed home to Texas to visit family for the Thanksgiving holiday.
"Two of the students were tuba players, the other was a percussionist," said Southern University's Director of Bands, Kedric Taylor.
"I knew Parlay had to assist these families in whatever way we could. I reached out to Kendric and he, like all the students, was emotionally destroyed," said Reaux Fareal, Parlay Foundation Founder. The band director confirmed to Reaux, the families did indeed need financial assistance.
Alumni and students poured in donations to help the band with memorial preparations for these students. "Our HBCU5 program was designed to help families with any financial difficulties for students at HBCUs. This was so heartbreaking that we raised $1000 in two hours through our social media campaigns." All donations were given to Southern University's band.
Southern University President-Chancellor Dennis Shields offered condolences to the victims' families and friends as well as to the school community.
"I know that the sudden loss of a classmate or friend can be devastating," he said in a statement. "I encourage you to reach out to someone you trust to talk about your feelings. Know that the University Counseling Center is also here to assist you."
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards posted his condolences. "We join the Southern University family and especially the Human Jukebox Marching Band in mourning the deep loss of the three students whose lives were tragically cut short after yesterday’s accident."
