A University of Georgia student was “critically injured” in the New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans, the school has confirmed.
Georgia was gearing up to face Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl at the Superdome on Wednesday evening, but the game has been postponed to Thursday following the attack, which left 10 people dead and 35 others injured.
The FBI has confirmed that 42-year-old suspect Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, a U.S. Citizen from Texas, had been killed by law enforcement officers after driving a pickup truck into a crowd of revelers celebrating the New Year in Bourbon Street the heart of the city’s tourist hotspot French Quarter at 3:15 a.m. CT before a firefight with police.
University of Georgia President Jere W. Morehead confirmed one of its students was among those fighting for their lives following the attack. He said in a statement: “I am deeply saddened by the devastating attack in New Orleans overnight, and I extend my sincere condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this terrible tragedy.
“At this point, we have learned that a University of Georgia student was critically injured in the attack and is receiving medical treatment. I have spoken to the students family and shared my concern, support and well wishes on behalf of the entire UGA community.
“I would like to express my gratitude to all the first responders who moved so quickly to help those affected by this senseless act of violence, as well as to the medical personnel who are caring for the injured.
“As we continue to hold the victims and their families in our thoughts and prayers, the university will do everything in its power to support those in our community who have been impacted by this unspeakable event.”
Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley announced the decision to postpone the Sugar Bowl, which is also serving as a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.
“We were scheduled this evening to have a CFP quarterfinal played in the Superdome at 7:45 p.m. We have been in constant consultation with ESPN, with the College Football Playoff, with the SEC, with the University of Georgia, with Notre Dame,” Hundley said.
“All parties agree its in the best interests of everybody and public safety that we postpone the game for 24 hours. Work is fast about to set up a safe, efficient and fun environment for tomorrow night. There will be more details on that in the coming hours but, for now, that is the plan to move forward.
“We reiterate our thanks to everyone up here for the important work they are doing. We live in the fun and games world with what we do, but we certainly recognize the importance of this and we’re going to support it 100 per cent.”
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