Grammy-Award Winning Brass Band Drummer, Kerry “Fatman” Hunter Killed in New Orleans Hit and Run

Credit: Chase This Light Photography 

New Orleans’ vast community of artists and musicians is mourning the loss of Kerry “Fatman” Hunter. The Grammy Award-winning drummer was killed in a hit-and-run accident on Mardi Gras morning. 

According to reports, the musician was walking near North Claiborne and Elysian Avenue at 12:08 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13, when he attempted to cross the street and was struck by 21-year-old Jeremy Lindsay. The assailant was booked into the Orleans Parish Justice Center, where his blood alcohol level was well beyond the legal limit. 

Notably, Lindsay flagged down paramedics for assistance after fleeing for more than two miles, and Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene. Lindsay is currently facing counts of vehicular homicide and hit-and-run. Following his arrest, Lindsay was released from custody on $60,000 bail.

A prolific musician and honored community member, Hunter has performed with the Danny Baker-led Roots of Jazz Brass Band, Preservation Hall collection, and various brass arrangements, including Kinsfolk, Rebirth, Tornado, Dirty Dozen, and others. Hunter was a celebrated anchor in the New Birth Brass Band with Tanio Hinge prior to shifting to the New Orleans Night Crawlers. 

In the wake of Hunter’s passing, over 1,000 local residents and musicians took to the streets on Wednesday, Feb. 14, for a second line–tapping into the city’s celebratory spirit in honor of the departed. An outpouring of tributes and memories have been posted in remembrance of Hunter. Scroll down to view.