UGA issues statement following terror attack in New Orleans

The University of Georgia has issued a statement following a terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans early Wednesday morning.

Fox News reported that Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, drove a white Ford pickup truck through a heavy crowd on Bourbon Street, killing at least 10 and injuring 35 others. According to the statement released by UGA, one of the persons critically injured was a UGA student.

Below is the statement from UGA President Jere W. Morehead:

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 student’s 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.

The Georgia Bulldogs are scheduled to play the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl tonight at 8:45pm ET / 7:45pm CT. Most reports expect the game to be played as scheduled, but a confirmation of the status is expected at a 2:00pm ET news conference with New Orleans Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Due to an improvised explosive device being found on the scene, authorities are sweeping the Bourbon Street and French Quarter area, which also includes Caesars Superdome, the site of tonight’s Sugar Bowl contest.

“An ISIS flag was located in the vehicle and the FBI is working to determine the subject’s potential associations and affiliations with terrorist organizations. Weapons and a potential IED were located in the subject’s vehicle. Other potential IEDs were also located in the French Quarter,” the FBI said in a statement.

We will provide further updates on the status of the Georgia-Notre Dame game as they are announced.