Security changes announced after mass panic, evacuation of Dallas cheer competition
Varsity Sports, the company behind the Dallas cheer competition that was evacuated March 1, will revamp security at its competitions, according to a statement.
“The events of March 1 were deeply unsettling, and we remain committed to supporting those affected while reinforcing the security measures at our competitions,” the statement reads.
The competition, held at the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center in Dallas last weekend, was evacuated after a fight between two people caused a stampede, according to the Dallas Police Department.
Poles were knocked down during the fight, causing a loud noise, Dallas police said. The noise sparked fears of an active shooter situation.
Dallas police responded March 2 to social media chatter about bullet holes in the glass at the convention center.
The damage to the glass was caused by a previously reported act of vandalism and there is no information that indicates a shooting occurred at the competition, police said.
Varsity Sports will provide counseling support to those affected by the incident, as well as ticket refunds and a virtual competition, according to a letter from the company’s president.
The company will also increase police presence at its events, use weapons detection systems when possible and begin implementing a clear-bag policy next season, according to the letter.
“Safety is a team effort, and together, we will protect the experiences and events we all cherish,” the letter reads.
