JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The deadly attack in New Orleans has security on the minds of police agencies, particularly in places with more large gatherings happening in the new year which includes one in Jacksonville for the Gator Bowl Thursday.
RELATED: Sugar Bowl between Georgia, Notre Dame postponed to Thursday after New Orleans attack
This follows the truck driving into a crowd and killing ten as the driver got out and started firing a weapon.
“You hear the screech of tires and when I turn my head around there’s like a Yukon or Escalade something just barreling down the street, bro. I kid you not, like, real-life horror movie. Everything in the car is hitting, it’s getting thrown. It’s getting thrown up into the air and away and just or under the car,″ recounted Zion Parsons, a witness to the attack.
With Jacksonville hosting the Gator Bowl on Thursday, fans from Ole Miss and Duke are in town and likely will be gathered in large crowds.
RELATED: Driver identified as Houston resident in New Orleans New Year’s attack that killed 10
Ole’ Miss fan Sophia Pham said she was “kinda” concerned about safety.
“Because if it could happen in New Orleans it could happen anywhere. Just nerve-wracking,” Pham said.
This follows a similar attack on a Christmas market in Germany last month where a driver plowed into a crowd killing five and injuring several hundred.
“It’s a fear of a copycat or it’s a fear that it’s a part of a string of other things that may take place like this. If this is an act of terrorism and there’s any larger group that’s doing this. What’s next on the list?,” said News4JAX Crime and Safety Analyst Tom Hackney.
On Thursday, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office provided News4JAX with the statement below.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, along with its local, state and federal partners continually prepare for planned as well as unplanned events - the Tax Slayer Gator Bowl is no exception. We are collaborating with stake holders and are taking necessary measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for those in attendance.
Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office| Public Information Office
Both Notre Dame and Georgia have released statements on the attack.
— University of Notre Dame (@NotreDame) January 1, 2025
Statement from UGA Athletic Association:
— Georgia Bulldogs (@UGAAthletics) January 1, 2025
“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…
Officials announced that the Sugar Bowl will be postponed for 24 hours.