The New Orleans Saints and the NFL have pledged $1 million to assist victims of the Bourbon Street attack that tragically claimed 14 lives on New Year’s Day, the Saints announced Saturday.
“This unimaginable tragedy has broken our collective hearts as we grieve for the victims and survivors of this terror attack,” said Gayle Benson, owner of the Saints, in a heartfelt statement. She emphasized the NFL’s commitment to standing united against hatred, highlighting how football fosters unity despite fierce competition.
The donation includes $500,000 from Benson and the Saints, with the NFL Foundation matching the contribution. The funds will be distributed through the Greater New Orleans Foundation and the United Way, ensuring support reaches the victims and their families.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed the league’s solidarity, stating, “Our hearts go out to all affected by this tragedy. The NFL stands with the resilient New Orleans community during these challenging times.”
The attack occurred in the early hours of January 1, when a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans’ French Quarter, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. The driver, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old Texas resident, was killed in a shootout with police. Authorities labeled the act terrorism, noting an ISIS flag on the truck and evidence linking Jabbar’s motives to the extremist group.
At least 35 people were injured, some critically, in what the FBI described as a premeditated attack. President Joe Biden condemned the act as terrorism and announced plans to visit New Orleans with First Lady Jill Biden to support the grieving families and community.
A vigil held Saturday on Bourbon Street became a celebration of life, with music from a brass band. Among those attending was Cathy Tenedorio, who lost her 25-year-old son, Matthew. She described the outpouring of love and condolences as overwhelming.
The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office has released the names of the victims, including individuals from across the U.S. and abroad, marking the breadth of lives impacted by the tragedy.
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