Members of Houston ISD's Waltrip High School marching band and accompanying staff and parents were confirmed safe following a deadly incident on New Orleans' Bourbon Street on Wednesday morning. The students were in the city to take part in Sugar Bowl festivities, and all were reported to be away from the scene of the attack, according to KHOU.
On New Year's Day, a man drove a pickup through a crowd, killing 10 people and injuring over 30 before shooting at police. The FBI was called in, and the incident was labeled terrorism. Amid the chaos, high school activities were canceled, and there were concerns about a band trip to New Orleans. Houston Mayor John Whitmire arranged a police escort, and HISD Superintendent Mike Miles reassured parents, saying, "I understand the Division Leadership had safety concerns about this trip, and while student safety and security is always our top priority, I am confident we can safeguard our students and provide them with this incredible opportunity," as obtained by Click2Houston.
The band’s performance at the Sugar Bowl went ahead on New Year's Eve, but a tragic incident on Bourbon Street overshadowed their trip and the city's celebrations. The band was unharmed, and the students returned safely to Houston. Mayor Whitmire praised the cooperation of local and state law enforcement. Houston ISD and city officials are focused on supporting those affected by the violence and offering condolences to the victims and their families, as reported by KHOU.
