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The development of a small quarrel struck fear within thousands of cheerleaders, parents, brothers, sisters, and others attending The annual NCA All-Star National Championship.
On Saturday, March 1 the development of a small quarrel struck fear within thousands of cheerleaders, parents, brothers, sisters, and others attending The annual NCA All-Star National Championship in Dallas, Texas.
At the Kay Bailey Convention Center around one p.m., a sudden stampede of those present set off fleeing the scene, knocking down anything in their way, pushing past one another, and causing at least 10 hospital-worthy injuries.
This convention attracted about 30,000 cheerleaders as well as all of their parents from all over the country. This totals to around 58,000 visitors.
This all began, supposedly, as a result of two parents fighting at the concessions stand causing poles to fall. According to the police report, this sound of falling equipment is what some had mistaken for gunshots. This false-word traveled throughout the event causing widespread panic.
Attendees shouted “Active shooter!” and “just had to act” according to a USA Today interview.
According to Houston’s local CBS Channel, a cheerleader who was present, Allie Wells from Missouri City, said,“Parents were crying… one of my coaches actually had to go to the hospital- she got trampled.”
Many fled to surrounding buildings including an apartment which opened an emergency exit for fleers seeking shelter. As well as parents being separated from their children.
The convention center directed those separated family members to report to a “family reunification center”.
This event generated about 64 million dollars, which the convention center is refusing to refund due to the report of no gunshots. The event was rightfully cancelled for the day “to ensure a safe environment”, but resumed the next day.
Police have not made any arrests and claim there were no shots fired, however, those who were present claim otherwise.
Many have taken to social media to address their personal thoughts and experiences with the catastrophe.
One user on TikTok asks “Y’all see these bullet holes in the Arena windows?” partnered with a video featuring apparent bullet holes in the glass. Of course viewers are skeptical as to why the glass was not broken, especially because of the police claim of no shooter.
This event should be seen as a cautionary tale as to the effects of gun irresponsibility which has left many injured, traumatized, and/or paranoid. The presence of thousands leads to a higher risk of gun violence that attendees should not have had to have feared.
Although there were no reports of actual gunfire, many were left scared. To say this is unfortunate is an understatement as events like this should encourage positivity and leave the real focal point to the performers.
On the other hand, it is fortunate that this supposed gun fire was actually supposed and those lives who were present were safe and only a few of the thousands left with just a broken arm or a few scratches.