Georgia issues statements on football team, injured student following New Orleans attack

Posted by Admin January 1, 2025 Football

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All Georgia football team personnel and members are safe following an attack that left 10 dead and 35 injured early on New Year’s Day in New Orleans.

The No. 2-ranked Bulldogs are in the city ahead of Wednesday’s College Football Playoff Sugar Bowl quarterfinal against No. 7 Notre Dame. Georgia’s athletics account released a statement on social media Wednesday afternoon stating all of its traveling party was accounted for.

Georgia football 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.”

On Wednesday afternoon, ESPN’s Laura Rutledge reported on “College GameDay” that Georgia football is currently sheltering in place in its hotel.

“Our prayers are with everyone involved in this horrific event, and we are here to support them in any way possible. As a native Louisianian, I know how special this place is. The people of New Orleans and this entire community are resilient and will remain strong during this time of healing,” Georgia Director of Athletics Josh Brooks wrote on his X account (formerly Twitter).

University of Georgia statement on injured student

While all of the Georgia football personnel is safe, Georgia president Jere W. Morehead released a statement on Wednesday afternoon that the attack impacted one Georgia student:

“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,” Morehead’s statement read.

“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.”