SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey releases statement on 'act of terrorism' in New Orleans ahead of Sugar Bowl

In the aftermath of the horrific attack by a man driving a truck into a group of pedestrians in the French Quarter of New Orleans during New Year’s Eve celebrations, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey released a statement on the tragic events.

The attack, which took place just hours before Georgia and Notre Dame are scheduled to play in the Sugar Bowl, killed 10 and injured another 30 people and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell went so far as to call it a “terrorist attack.”

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“New Orleans is a special community that is hurting as we begin the New Year,” Sankey wrote in his statement. “Today’s tragedy in the French Quarter is a sobering event that reminds us that life is precious and each day is to be cherished.”

Statement from @SEC Commissioner @GregSankey on tragic events in New Orleans: pic.twitter.com/roXvbivxrV

— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) January 1, 2025

“Our prayers are with the families and everyone associated with those impacted by this senseless act of violence,” Sankey continued. “We are grateful for those serving in law enforcement and public safety who responded immediately and continue to work for the safety of the community.”

The incident occurred around 3:15 a.m. when people in New Orleans were still out celebrating New Year’s Eve, particularly around the popular Bourbon Street area. The FBI is now investigating with the injured being taken to five separate hospitals. At least one suspected improvised explosive device was also found at the scene. The suspect of the attack is reportedly dead after the incident.

Prior to Sankey’s statement, the Sugar Bowl Committee and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Hundley released a statement on the incident.

“The Sugar Bowl Committee is devastated by the terrible events from early this morning,” Hundley’s statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We are in ongoing discussions with authorities on the local, state, and federal levels and will communicate further details as they become available.”

Naturally, given the significant nature of the attack, there is an abundance of precaution from local authority figures and officials.

As of now, the Sugar Bowl, which is acting as a quarterfinal for the College Football Playoff, is still scheduled to be played as scheduled. However, there is a chance it could face a delay. Authorities are reportedly conducting a sweep of the Superdome in New Orleans. Those working there have been told not to come into work as of now. More information on that decision is set to be announced around 2:00 p.m. EST.

Georgia and Notre Dame are set to play in the Sugar Bowl at 8:45 p.m. EST on New Year’s Day. The winner will advance to play Penn State.