New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr woke up praying for the city after seeing the tragic events which unfolded in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
At 3:15 a.m. local time in Bourbon Street, the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans, a man drove into crowds of people in what’s since been declared a terror attack. At least 15 people were killed and at least 35 were injured, and the attacker was later shot and killed by police.
The attacker has since been identified, but only some victims have been named. Carr posted on X at 9:07 a.m. local time after seeing the devastating news, and was joined by Saints teammates who also paid tribute to the victims.
“Praying for New Orleans,” Carr wrote. “Woke up and saw the news this morning.” Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu also posted, writing: “Praying for all those affected by the tragic events last night on Bourbon Street!”
Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed later added: “Pray for the city & everyone affected last night.” The Saints also posted a joint statement with the New Orleans Pelicans, as the professional sports teams united during a difficult period.
“The New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred on Bourbon Street early on New Year’s Day,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to all victims and their families during this difficult time and express our deepest gratitude to the first responders who acted swiftly and bravely on the scene.
“New Orleans is a city built on resilience, and this heartbreaking event reminds us of the importance of coming together to support one another, to honor those affected, and to work toward healing as a community. In times of tragedy, the New Orleans community has always shown extraordinary courage and compassion, and we are certain that this time will be no different.”
Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi spoke to the media as usual on Wednesday afternoon, ahead of their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Rizzi opened with a statement on the New Year’s Day attack, issuing his own personal tribute.
“Today is obviously a very somber day in our community,” Rizzi said. “I want to send out my personal, heartfelt condolences, thoughts, and prayers to all the victims in the senseless shooting and attack early this morning in the French quarter.
“It goes without saying this was senseless. It’s hard to understand, and it’s really hard to comprehend why these things keep happening in our country.” Rizzi also stated that the attacks hit close to home, with some of his children recently visiting the French Quarter to enjoy the New Orleans nightlife.
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