SXSW accident update: Austin night clubs reopen for business and team up for charity

Two night clubs in Austin near the accident that took the life of two SXSW attendees reopened and are teaming up for charity.

On Wednesday night, a driver plowed through a crowd of SXSW festival-goers in an attempt to avoid a DUI checkpoint, killing one man and one woman and injuring 23 others.

Austin's Mohawk and Cheer Up Charlies are still holding their scheduled SXSW showcases starting Thursday evening, according to Music Mix.

SXSW's founder Roland Swenson confirmed that after consulting with the Austin Police Department and City of Austin officials in an effort to curb further safety issues, both clubs would be open for business starting 7 p.m.

The owner of Mohawk, James Moody, also issued a personal statement in the wake of Wednesday night's tragic events.

"My staff and myself are broken hearted for not only the victims and families of this senseless tragedy but also for our beloved Red River and this entire community," he said.

Mohawk and Cheer Up Charlies have both teamed up with SXSW and the city of Austin to create a relief fund for the victims and their respective families.

"This is our number one priority," Moody said of the fund. "We are a community here that exists far beyond the 10 days of SXSW. Our intent is to come together to help the families of each and every one of the victims."

A SXSW Cares Fund has been set up for those who wish to donate to the foundation.