A sales executive for radio broadcaster Audacy was one of over a dozen people killed in a terrorist attack in New Orleans on Wednesday.
The executive, Billy DiMaio, joined Audacy in March 2023 as a performance sales executive. He was based out of the company’s New York City office and was promoted to the role of account manager just two months ago.
A spokesperson for Audacy said DiMaoi will be “fondly remembered for his unwavering work ethic, positive attitude, and kindness.”
“He was a true asset to the Audacy team, and his contributions and presence will be deeply missed,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Billy’s family and friends during this exceedingly difficult time, and we extend our deepest sympathies to them and every member of the Audacy family who had the privilege of working with him.”
DiMaio was among hundreds of New Year’s Day celebrators on Bourbon Street in New Orleans when 42-year-old Shamsud-din Jabbar drove around at least one police barricade and rammed through a crowd of people. Jabbar later crashed his rented pick-up truck into a piece of heavy equipment, then began opening fire on people and police nearby. It wasn’t clear if DiMaio was killed by the truck or by gunfire.
A total of 15 people were killed in the attack, according to the Wall Street Journal, a count that apparently included Jabbar. Law enforcement investigators said Jabbar appeared to be inspired by the Islamic State (ISIS), a Middle Eastern jihadist network.
DiMaio, 25, was from Holmdel, New Jersey. He graduated from Holmdel High School, then attended Chestnut Hill College in Pennsylvania, where he graduated first with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and management, then later obtained a Master of Science degree in organizational leadership.
In November, DiMaio said he was grateful for the opportunity to work at Audacy as an enterprise account executive and was “looking forward to contributing to both the enterprise and performance sides of the business.”
