NEW ORLEANS — At least one University of Georgia student is critically hurt after the New Year’s New Orleans attack. The school confirmed the student’s status on Wednesday.
According to police, a driver intentionally drove into the crowd on Bourbon Street. He killed 10 people and injured 35 others.
>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<
The FBI says it is investigating the crash as “an act of terrorism.”
Action News Jax’s Atlanta sister station WSB-TV reports that, “New Orleans police said the majority of the victims appear to be locals, but acknowledged that many visitors were in town for New Year’s and the Sugar Bowl between Georgia and Notre Dame.”
The University of Georgia has been working to confirm if any of the victims in the attack are connected to UGA.
On Wednesday afternoon, UGA President Jere W. Morehead confirmed one student was critically injured. The student has not been identified.
[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]
According to WSB-TV, Borehead said the following 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 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 University of Georgia Athletic Association says all team members and personnel who traveled with the football program are safe.
[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]
They said in a statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless violence that occurred in New Orleans. All team personnel and members of the official team travel party have been accounted for. Currently, we are in contact with local law enforcement as well as representatives from the Sugar Bowl and College Football Playoff and are continuing to gather more information. Our prayers are with all those who traveled here for the Sugar Bowl and entire New Orleans community.”
The University of Georgia Red Coat Marching Band says all of their members are also safe and accounted for.
Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
