A 16-year-old New Orleans teenager, Malik Cornelius, has been arrested in connection with the tragic shooting death of 32-year-old Jacob Carter, a Tacoma business owner. Carter, who owned the popular bagel shop Howdy Bagel, was visiting New Orleans with his husband when he was fatally shot on January 5, 2024. The incident occurred near the intersection of Bourbon and Kerlerec Streets, in the Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans, a location known for its vibrant nightlife.
Jacob Carter, a well-respected business owner in Tacoma, was in New Orleans on a trip with his husband, Daniel Blagovich, who is also the co-founder of Howdy Bagel. The shooting occurred as the couple walked through the area, with Carter being struck by gunfire. The community was shocked by the sudden, senseless nature of the crime, which left Carter dead and Blagovich devastated. Witnesses and surveillance footage from nearby cameras helped identify Cornelius as a suspect. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) quickly made the connection between a stolen Kia vehicle, found dumped in Bayou St. John, and the shooting incident. Surveillance video and tips from the community led authorities to apprehend Malik Cornelius on January 12, 2024, just days after the crime.
Cornelius, who was initially arrested on suspicion of murder, was later charged with second-degree murder. He was transferred to adult court to face the charges. During his arraignment, which took place on May 21, 2024, Cornelius pleaded not guilty to the murder charge before Judge Camille Buras. A discovery hearing was scheduled for August 1, 2024, where further legal proceedings are expected to unfold.
Jacob Carter’s death has been a significant loss for his family, friends, and the Tacoma community. Howdy Bagel, the beloved business that Carter co-founded, has also been impacted by the tragedy. In response to the loss of the shop’s owner, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support the business, which raised over $300,000. These funds were used to assist with business expenses and to provide financial support to the staff during the temporary closure of the shop. The GoFundMe campaign received an outpouring of support from the Tacoma community and beyond, as people rallied behind Blagovich and the business.
The arrest of Malik Cornelius brings some sense of closure to the case, but the impact of Carter’s death is far-reaching. The case has drawn attention not only for the nature of the crime but also for the tragic loss of a vibrant and promising individual who made a lasting impact on the community in Tacoma. Carter’s husband, Daniel Blagovich, continues to receive support from the community as he copes with the devastating loss of his spouse and partner in the business. While the legal process moves forward, many are left wondering about the reasons behind this senseless act of violence.
As of now, there have been no reports regarding any apology from the judge in relation to the case, and the legal proceedings continue to unfold. The New Orleans Police Department remains committed to providing justice for Jacob Carter, and the case will undoubtedly continue to capture the attention of both local and national audiences. As the community continues to mourn Carter’s death, the search for justice moves forward with the hope that Cornelius will be held accountable for his actions.
