Just over a month after a tragic truck-ramming terror attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans left 14 people dead and dozens injured, the victims and first responders will be honored at Super Bowl LIX on Sunday. The NFL confirmed plans to pay tribute to those affected by the New Year’s Day attack as the city hosts its eleventh Super Bowl.
The usually celebratory atmosphere surrounding the event will include a solemn moment of remembrance. While specific details of the tribute remain undisclosed, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy assured that the league would “appropriately honor the victims and first responders.” The game, set to take place at the Caesars Superdome, will be attended by more than 75,000 fans, with millions watching globally.
Among those expected in attendance are survivors, firefighters, paramedics, and police officers who responded to the attack. These first responders played a critical role in assisting the injured and ultimately stopping the suspect in a gun battle.
The Bourbon Street attack also delayed the Sugar Bowl, a college football playoff game, by one day. Before kickoff, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell led a moment of silence, and former President Joe Biden addressed the crowd via video, stating, “The spirit of New Orleans can never be kept down.”
Security remains a priority for the Super Bowl, but officials have stated there are “no credible threats” to the event. Louisiana State Police and federal agencies have increased their presence around the Superdome to ensure public safety.
President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the game, marking the first time a sitting U.S. president will be present at a Super Bowl.
Leading up to the game, players from both Super Bowl teams and the New Orleans Saints have shown support for attack survivors. Some have received surprise invitations to attend the Super Bowl. Saints linebacker Demario Davis personally presented game tickets to Stevey Kells, a nurse who provided first aid to victims. Davis emphasized the resilience of New Orleans, praising the first responders and community members who acted heroically during the crisis.
