On January 5, 2024, a violent incident occurred during Jacob Carter’s vacation with his husband, Daniel, in New Orleans.
The Tacoma, Washington, community is deeply saddened by the loss of Jacob, one of the co-founders of Howdy Bagel.
The tragic news was announced on the company’s official Instagram account, prompting supporters to initiate fundraising efforts for Jacob’s grieving family.
But many are curious to know how this tragedy happened.
On January 5, 2024, Jacob Carter was tragically killed while vacationing in New Orleans with his husband, Daniel Blagovich. They founded Howdy Bagel in 2020, which grew from a small home delivery service into a cherished Tacoma eatery. The official cause of death and details are yet unknown, but rumors hint at a shooting by an unidentified assailant, raising concerns of a possible hate crime.
Explained: What Caused Jacob Carter’s Death?
Howdy Bagel, a beloved eatery in Tacoma, Washington, shared the tragic news on their Instagram account, announcing the untimely death of co-owner Jacob Carter, who was killed on January 5th, 2024, while vacationing in New Orleans with his husband, Daniel.
The heartfelt tribute by Howdy Bagel described Carter as someone who radiated kindness, warmth, and genuine care towards everyone he encountered. They wrote:
“Jake was one of the brightest spots in the lives of everyone he loved… This loss is immeasurable for our community.”
Despite this profound loss, the cause of his death remained undisclosed at the time of writing.
Following the announcement of Jacob Carter’s passing, the Tacoma and New Orleans communities have been closely following the circumstances surrounding his death and seeking details about the exact cause.
A Reddit user by the name u/FirelTGuy took to the r/Tacoma subreddit and claimed that Carter’s death was under active homicide investigation.
They attached a Superintendent’s Major Offense document suggesting that an unidentified individual had approached Carter, shot him, and then fled the scene.
However, it is essential to note that law enforcement has not confirmed these claims, and the attached filing did not name Jacob Carter as the victim.
Rumors have also circulated that Carter’s death might have been motivated by homophobia, but there is no official confirmation or reports supporting this claim at this time as well.
In response to this tragedy, a GoFundMe fundraiser was initiated to support Jacob Carter’s husband, Daniel, and help sustain Howdy Bagel during this challenging period.
Organized by Scout McLaughlin and Stevi Hamill, the fundraiser aims to alleviate the logistical burdens faced by Daniel Blagovich as he mourns the unexpected loss of his partner.
The GoFundMe page stated:
“To give Daniel space to grieve without worrying about the logistics of running a business, we ask that you consider donating to help cover some of the shop costs and employee wages in this difficult season. The link is in the bio. The shop will be closed temporarily as we all navigate this time of grief.”
It further expressed:
“Daniel and Jacob have been continually blown away and grateful for the ways that this community has rallied together to support Howdy Bagel. We know that in this difficult season, you will all continue to show up with love and support.”
Community members have responded with compassion.
In a heartwarming display of solidarity, the GoFundMe campaign quickly gained momentum, raising over $139k in the wake of Jacob Carter’s tragic passing. So, it has passed the target of $50k.
What Is Howdy Bagel?
Jacob Carter and his husband, Daniel Blagovich, established Howdy Bagel in 2020 following their job layoffs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What began as a humble home-based bagel delivery service for family and friends evolved into one of Tacoma’s most beloved dining establishments.
It quickly became a cherished asset to the city, particularly within the queer community, thanks to their exceptional treatment of both staff and patrons.
Numerous individuals expressed their condolences and admiration for Jacob’s impact on the community through online tributes.
A heartfelt message from user Pandas_r_falsebears on the Tacoma subreddit stated:
“I first started going to Howdy Bagel when it was a stand at the Proctor Farmer’s Market. I don’t know how he could have remembered me, but Jacob always acted like he did – such a warm, genuine person. I’m so incredibly sorry for his loved ones’ loss.”
While awaiting the official obituary, the cause of Jacob Carter’s passing remains pending, with details to be unveiled in due course.
Did you ever visit Howdy Bagel? Do you have any insights into the case?
Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.