Sugar Bowl Proceeds Under Tight Security After New Orleans Terror Attack

Created: JANUARY 26, 2025

College football enthusiasts gathered at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Thursday, January 2, 2025, for the Sugar Bowl, a game rescheduled following a tragic terror incident on New Year's Day. The attack on Bourbon Street, which claimed over a dozen lives and injured many more, led to the postponement of the highly anticipated matchup between Georgia and Notre Dame.

Georgia fans in line

Fans entering the Superdome fan zone ahead of the Sugar Bowl. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Fans enter security

Fans undergoing security checks at the Superdome. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Fans pass through security check points as they enter the Caesars Superdome fan zone ahead of the Sugar Bowl NCAA College Football Playoff game, Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, in New Orleans.

Fans navigate security checkpoints at the Caesars Superdome. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Despite the attack, the game went ahead, with fans seen passing through enhanced security measures around the Superdome. While some fans opted to forgo the event, many others chose to attend. Authorities reopened Bourbon Street just hours before the game's kickoff.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry affirmed his attendance at the Sugar Bowl, emphasizing the heightened security presence and expressing confidence in the safety of the Superdome. He noted the FBI's ongoing commitment to the investigation and resource allocation in the state.

Superdome security

Security personnel and K9 units inspect vehicles at the Superdome parking garage. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

The pregame festivities, including the national anthem, a light show, and performances by both schools' marching bands, commenced at 2:15 p.m. CT, with the game starting an hour later. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey expressed condolences for the victims of the New Year's Day tragedy while also acknowledging the efforts made to ensure the game could proceed.

SWAT outside of Caesars Superdome

SWAT teams patrol the perimeter of the Caesars Superdome. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Bomb-sniffing dogs search cars

Bomb-sniffing dogs assist in vehicle inspections at the Superdome parking garage. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

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