**This Social Media Release was created for educational use and is not affiliated with Auburn University in any way.**
Pitch:
Breaking News – This afternoon at approximately 2 p.m., an explosion occurred in the sold-out Auburn Arena 10 minutes before tipoff of the Auburn and University of Kentucky men’s basketball game for the SEC title. Five people, including two Auburn students, were killed and at least 20 people were injured from the explosion that took place near a crowded concession stand. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, and the game is postponed until Monday, Feb. 28.
Background:
Auburn University is home to more than 28,000 students served by more than 4,000 faculty and staff. Since its opening in 1859 Auburn has provided students with superior education for more than 155 years. With 15 schools and colleges Auburn offers over 140 different majors from which students can choose. The Auburn creed states, “I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that develop these qualities,” which is the goal the Auburn basketball team strives to follow. Their team and program is based off of core Auburn traditions – passion and spirit.
The Auburn Tigers basketball games take place in the Auburn Arena, which is located on the west side of Auburn University’s campus. The Auburn Arena is a 9,121-seat multi-purpose arena, which was built back in 2010 to replace the Beard-Eaves Memorial Coliseum. The arena is home to the Auburn Tigers men’s and women’s basketball, women’s gymnastics and women’s volleyball teams.
Quotes:
“We are working with authorities to start the investigation of how this happened, why this happened and how we can keep this from happening again,” said Hayley Wright, public information officer.
“We are sorry this explosion happened, we are extremely concerned and we are doing everything possible to contain the effects of this event,” said Abbie Little, head of university public safety and security.
“Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this explosion and those who lost loved ones tonight,” said Laura Sellers Perdue, Auburn University president.
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