DALLAS, TX – On Saturday, March 1, 2025, chaos ensued at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center during the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) All-Star National Championship. A fight between two individuals led to a loud noise, causing panic among attendees who feared an active shooter situation. The incident resulted in multiple non-life-threatening injuries as people rushed to evacuate the venue.
Incident Details
Around 1 p.m., during the cheerleading competition, a physical altercation broke out between two attendees. This scuffle led to the toppling of multiple poles, creating a loud noise that many mistook for gunfire. The sudden commotion triggered a stampede, with thousands attempting to flee the convention center.
Dallas Police Department (DPD) officers responded promptly to reports of an active shooter. Upon investigation, they confirmed that no shots were fired and that the panic was a result of the loud noise from the fallen poles. DPD stated, “The preliminary investigation determined a fight between two people led to multiple poles being knocked down, which caused a loud noise.”
Injuries and Emergency Response
The ensuing panic led to several non-life-threatening injuries. Attendees, including children, were seen crying and fleeing the scene. Emergency responders treated individuals for injuries such as bruises, scrapes, and fractures. A family reunification center was established at 400 North Lamar Street to assist those separated during the chaos.
Event Disruption and Resumption
The NCA All-Star National Championship, a significant event drawing over 30,000 athletes from 43 states and nine countries, was temporarily suspended following the incident. The competition resumed the following day, with enhanced security measures in place to ensure the safety of all participants and attendees.
Reactions from Attendees
Witnesses described the scene as traumatizing. Megan Boggs, a parent from Houston, recounted helping another parent find her child amidst the chaos. She observed attendees trampling one another, seeking cover, and attempting to escape through windows. “Someone yells ‘shooter’ in today’s day and age and it becomes chaos,” Boggs remarked. “You got around 30,000 people in a convention center, so everyone was running and screaming … .”
Official Statements
Varsity Brands, the organizer of the NCA event, issued a statement expressing gratitude to the Dallas Police Department and first responders for their swift action. They acknowledged the incident was triggered by an altercation between two attendees, leading to panic and multiple non-life-threatening injuries. The organization emphasized its commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all participants as the competition resumed.
The incident at the NCA All-Star National Championship highlights the heightened sensitivity to potential threats in large gatherings. While no active shooter was present, the rapid spread of misinformation led to widespread panic. Event organizers and security personnel are urged to review and enhance safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
