The College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup between No. 2 Georgia and No. 3 Notre Dame has been overshadowed by a tragic event in New Orleans. Early Wednesday morning, a driver intentionally plowed a car into a crowd of people celebrating the New Year on Bourbon Street, killing at least 10 people and injuring over 25 others, according to New Orleans officials. The attack has been deemed an act of terror by the FBI, and the agency is investigating.
The incident occurred as thousands of college football fans were heading to the historic city for the game at the Caesars Superdome. Allstate Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley released a statement offering condolences to the victims and their families, and the Sugar Bowl Committee is working with authorities to ensure the game goes on as scheduled.
Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick seemed to indicate that the game would go on as planned, but concerns about security have become a major issue. The Superdome has a capacity of over 80,000, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of fans and officials.
The New Orleans Police Department reported that the driver, who has not been identified, killed at least 10 people and injured 35 others, and exchanged gunfire with law enforcement before being fatally struck. The suspect’s motives are still unclear, and the FBI is working to confirm whether improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found at the scene are viable.
Wednesday’s game is scheduled to kick off at 8:45 p.m. ET, and fans should be aware of the ongoing investigation and any updates from authorities.