The world awoke to the horrific news of an attack that took place in the early morning hours of New Orleans. A man identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas, drove a pickup truck into the French Quarter of New Orleans.
Jabbar then left the vehicle armed with an assault rifle, where he opened fire on police. He was shot and killed. Authorities also revealed that an explosive device was found in the truck.
Read more: Sugar Bowl Delayed in Wake of Deadly New Orleans Attack
At least 15 people were killed and dozens more were injured per a report from ABC News. Among the dead is one student from the University of Georgia. The Georgia Bulldogs and Notre Dame Fighting Irish were set to face off in the Sugar Bowl, which has since been delayed.
Georgia, Notre Dame, and more have released official statements on the attack. The New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans also released a joint statement on X, which reads:
''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. 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.''
Now, Saints head coach Darren Rizzi has addressed the attack to the media.
"Today is a very somber day in our community. I want to send out my personal heartfelt condolences, thoughts, and prayers to all the victims of the senseless shooting and attack in the French Quarter. It goes without saying that this is senseless. It's hard to understand. It's really hard to comprehend why these things keep happening in our country. On a personal side, this hits close to home with me. Number one, I was close to New York and the 9/11 attacks, and lost some personal friends, lost some high school teammates, and some close family friends. Anytime anything like this happens it always resonates and brings back some memories of any type of terrorist attack that happens in our country."
"This community has welcomed me in for the last six year years, and my family. It's a sad day. It's hard to express my feelings, hard to express my sentiments ... I know that the community we live, the city, the state is one of the most resilient, if not the most resilient in the United States."
Rizzi addressed how his own son was out in the community celebrating the New Year, as the victims of the attack were. Sadly, there are many who did not make it home due to this senseless violence.
Read more: NFL Releases Statement, Promises "Comprehensive" Safety Following New Orleans Terrorist Attack
The NFL also released a statement and promised security measures that will be increased considering the site of the attack is right by the Ceasars Superdome, where the Super Bowl is set to be played next month.
For more on the Saints, head to Newsweek Sports.
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